ISLAMABAD: The United States has issued a strong warning to Oman against assisting Iran in establishing a tolling system for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening aggressive sanctions on the Gulf ally.

The development intensifies pressure from President Donald Trump’s administration amid ongoing regional maritime tensions. US officials stated that Washington will not tolerate any effort to impose fees on international shipping through the critical waterway.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent posted on X that the US Treasury would target any actors involved directly or indirectly in facilitating such tolls. He specifically cautioned Oman that willing partners would face penalties.

President Trump, during a recent Cabinet meeting, warned that Oman must “behave just like everybody else” or risk severe consequences, including remarks interpreted as potential military action.

The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies. Recent estimates indicate that approximately 20.9 million barrels per day of oil flowed through the strait in the first half of 2025, accounting for about 20 percent of global petroleum liquids consumption.

Around 89 percent of the crude oil and condensate transiting the strait heads to Asian markets, with China, India, Japan, and South Korea as major destinations.

Reports suggest Iran is negotiating with Oman to create a mechanism that would allow both countries to charge fees for safe passage. Oman, which shares control over parts of the waterway’s approaches, has historically maintained close ties with Iran while serving as a mediator with the West.

Pakistani diplomatic sources following Gulf developments noted that Oman previously rejected a full partnership but is now discussing revenue-sharing arrangements. This shift comes despite repeated US warnings.

The US position emphasises that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to all international shipping without any single country or pair imposing unilateral charges.

**Official Statements** Treasury Secretary Bessent made it clear: any involvement in a toll system would trigger sanctions. The administration views such a move as an attempt by Iran to generate revenue amid existing economic restrictions.

President Trump rejected any arrangement allowing Iran and Oman to jointly manage or charge for traffic through the strait. He stressed the waterway’s importance for global trade and energy security.

**Background Context** The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and remains one of the world’s most strategically sensitive passages. Over 30,000 vessels pass through it annually under normal conditions.

Tensions escalated following recent conflicts involving Iran, leading to temporary disruptions in shipping. Iran has sought mechanisms to assert greater control and generate income from maritime traffic, while Gulf states navigate complex balancing acts between regional relations and Western alliances.

Oman has long played a discreet mediation role between Iran and the United States, hosting talks and maintaining diplomatic channels even during periods of heightened friction.

**Reactions and Impact** The warning has drawn attention across Gulf capitals. Shipping industry observers expressed concern over potential further complications to already volatile maritime insurance and freight rates.

Asian economies, heavily dependent on Gulf energy supplies, are monitoring developments closely. Any successful implementation of a toll system could add costs to oil imports, potentially affecting global energy prices.

Market analysts estimate that even modest fees could translate into significant annual revenue for Iran and participating partners, though exact figures remain speculative at this stage.

**Strategic Implications** The US stance reinforces its commitment to freedom of navigation in international waters. It also signals to regional allies the limits of engagement with Iran on strategic maritime issues.

For Oman, the situation presents a delicate diplomatic challenge. As a longstanding US partner hosting American military facilities, Muscat must weigh its economic and security interests with Iran against potential American repercussions.

The episode highlights persistent vulnerabilities in global energy supply chains. Future developments will likely depend on the outcome of ongoing Iran-Oman discussions and the broader trajectory of US-Iran relations.

Analysts suggest that sustained US pressure could discourage Oman from deeper involvement, though quiet technical talks may continue. Regional stakeholders expect further statements from Washington and Muscat in coming days as the situation evolves.