Rubio rejects Hormuz fees, says no country owns the Strait

ABU DHABI: The future of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz has once again become a focal point of international attention after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that no country has the legal authority to impose tolls or transit fees on vessels passing through the waterway.

Speaking during a visit to Abu Dhabi, Rubio emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is an international maritime passage governed by global laws that guarantee freedom of navigation. His remarks came as Washington seeks to reassure Gulf allies following recent diplomatic developments between the United States and Iran.

Addressing reporters, Rubio said that international law does not permit any nation to levy taxes, tolls, or service charges on ships using the narrow but crucial shipping corridor. According to the U.S. top diplomat, regional countries share Washington’s view that unrestricted access to the strait is essential for global trade and energy security.

The statement arrives amid growing discussions about the future administration of the waterway. Earlier, Iran and Oman issued a joint declaration indicating they would examine management arrangements for the strait, including the possibility of fees linked to services provided in the area. The announcement sparked widespread debate among legal experts, policymakers, and energy analysts over the rights and responsibilities of nations bordering one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.

Rubio also addressed broader regional concerns, urging Tehran to act as a responsible state rather than pursuing policies that contribute to instability. He argued that Iran has significant opportunities for economic growth and international engagement if it embraces a more cooperative approach toward regional security.

The U.S. secretary further stressed that reducing tensions in the Middle East requires addressing the activities of armed groups linked to Iran. He cited missile and drone attacks launched from neighboring countries as threats to regional stability and suggested that such issues would remain part of ongoing diplomatic discussions between Washington and Tehran.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical chokepoints in global commerce. A substantial share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through the narrow waterway every day, connecting energy producers in the Gulf with markets across Asia, Europe, and beyond.

Analysts warn that any move affecting navigation rights, shipping costs, or transit regulations in the strait could have immediate consequences for global energy prices and international trade. As diplomatic negotiations continue, the future governance of this strategic passage is expected to remain under intense international scrutiny.