U.S. State Department: Iran's Toll Proposal Would Block Diplomatic Agreement

Mark Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, identified Iran's proposal for a toll in the Strait of Hormuz as a significant obstacle to U.S.-Iran diplomatic negotiations. While some positive signals have emerged in talks between the two nations, the issue of tolls in the Strait has become a critical factor in determining the feasibility of an agreement.

On May 21, Reuters reported that Rubio stated in a press conference, "If Iran implements a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz, a diplomatic agreement will become impossible." He emphasized, "No one in the world supports a toll system," adding that imposing such fees is unacceptable and cannot happen.

Rubio characterized Iran's toll proposal as a "threat to the world" and "completely illegal," arguing that charging commercial vessels for passage through the Strait undermines international navigation norms.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital corridor for global oil transportation. Iran has leveraged its control over the Strait as a bargaining chip in negotiations, while the U.S. views the imposition of tolls or passage permits for vessels as actions that disrupt international maritime order.

Rubio's remarks indicate that the U.S. considers the toll issue not merely a secondary concern in nuclear negotiations but a condition for any agreement.

However, Rubio left some room for negotiation with Iran. He noted, "There are good signals in talks with Iran," but added, "I don't want to be overly optimistic." He assessed that the Iranian regime is somewhat divided and stated, "We need to watch the developments over the next few days."

* This article has been translated by AI.

AJP