STNG

Iran and Oman are negotiating a permanent toll mechanism on commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran's newly established Persian Gulf Straits Authority already levying fees exceeding $1 million per vessel and granting exemptions to Russia and China. The US opposes the tolls as a violation of UNCLOS transit passage rights, has warned shipping firms that paying the fees could trigger sanctions, and is enforcing a counter-blockade on Iranian ports. Peace talks are described as in their final stages, but the US insists any deal must guarantee free, untolled navigation through the strait.