WASHINGTON: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that any Iranian move to impose a tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz would make a diplomatic agreement with Tehran impossible, calling the proposal illegal, dangerous and unacceptable.
Speaking amid ongoing efforts to ease tensions with Iran, Rubio said Washington would not accept any attempt by Tehran to control commercial passage through the strategic waterway. He said such a step would face broad international opposition and could become a decisive obstacle in negotiations.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes, with a major share of global oil and gas shipments passing through the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman. Any disruption there can quickly affect oil prices, shipping costs and global energy security.
Rubio said the United States still preferred a diplomatic solution, but stressed that diplomacy could not move forward if Iran used the strait as a pressure tool. He added that discussions had seen some progress, though serious differences remained inside Iran’s decision-making system and between the negotiating sides.
The warning comes as concerns grow over maritime security in the Gulf region. Reports of Iran considering a toll or control mechanism for ships using the strait have raised alarm among energy markets and international governments. Oil prices also moved higher after renewed uncertainty over U.S.-Iran negotiations.
Analysts say any attempt to charge vessels or restrict movement through the Strait of Hormuz would escalate the crisis and weaken chances of a negotiated settlement. For now, diplomatic channels remain open, but Rubio’s remarks suggest Washington views the Hormuz issue as a red line in talks with Tehran.
