US Treasury Secretary Bessent: Oman Will Not Charge Fees for Strait of Hormuz Transits

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Oman will not be part of any plan to charge commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. According to Anadolu Agency, Bessent's statement came as discussions over the conditions governing use of the strait — a critical artery for global energy trade — have been escalating.

The Strait of Hormuz carries approximately 20% of world oil trade and remains a persistent flashpoint amid tensions between Iran and Gulf states. Bessent's remarks are notable for directly refuting speculation that Oman intended to levy charges on transiting vessels.

Oman, which pursues a long-standing policy of regional balance, continues to play a decisive role in debates over maritime trade and energy security in the Gulf.