00:20A significant geopolitical shift may be unfolding in the Gulf.
00:24Oman has thrown its weight behind an Iranian proposal for maritime service fees in the
00:31Strait of Hormuz, a move that comes despite strong opposition from the Trump administration.
00:37In a development that could reshape regional dynamics, Oman has backed Iran's proposal
00:43to introduce maritime service fees for ships using the strait.
00:47Oman's foreign minister, Badr al-Busaydi, said Muscat supports charging vessels for navigation,
00:55environmental, and safety-related services provided in the strategic waterway.
01:00However, Oman maintains it does not support compulsory tolls simply for passing through
01:07the strait.
01:08The announcement comes as Washington continues to oppose any new charges on commercial shipping.
01:14The Trump administration has insisted that passage through the Strait of Hormuz must remain
01:20toll-free and has warned against measures that could increase costs for global trade.
01:26Despite U.S. objections, Iran and Oman have established a joint working group to develop
01:32a framework for maritime services and related fees in accordance with international standards.
01:38Iran argues the proposal complies with international law because the charges would be for services
01:44rendered, not transit itself, which is protected under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
01:51Tehran has also indicated it is prepared to move forward even without a joint agreement if necessary.
01:58The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil shipments, making
02:04any policy change closely watched by global markets.
02:08Analysts warn that additional service fees could raise shipping expenses, increase insurance
02:14costs, and eventually impact oil prices worldwide.
02:18The development highlights Oman's delicate balancing act between its close ties with the
02:24United States and its role as a regional mediator with Iran, as Gulf geopolitics continue to evolve.
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02:59Grazie a tutti!
03:00rhombie
