European governments are now privately accepting that ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz may eventually face service-related fees payable to Iran and Oman, Bloomberg reports, citing people familiar with the matter.
The idea of a post-war charging mechanism in the vital waterway is increasingly seen in European policy circles as difficult to avoid, the people said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the discussions.
No agreement has been reached, and the structure or level of any potential fees remains unclear. The US and several Gulf allies continue to oppose any such charges, arguing they would conflict with international maritime law and risk setting a precedent for other strategic sea lanes.
European governments have nonetheless pressed for any future arrangement to be non-discriminatory, while also exploring the creation of an international maritime coalition to support mine-clearing operations, depending on broader peace talks.
Some Gulf officials are said to share the view that some form of cost-sharing or service-based system may ultimately emerge, though this is not an official position.
Omani officials have reportedly indicated that a return to the pre-war status quo is unlikely and have floated models inspired by the Strait of Malacca, where navigation is supported through regional coordination and voluntary contributions.
The Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of global oil and LNG flows, remains central to ongoing negotiations following months of disruption during the US-Iran conflict.
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