Gulf States Back Plan to Let Iran Collect Voluntary Fees for Use of Strategic Waterway
A plan by Gulf states to allow Iran to collect fees from vessels using the strategic Strait of Hormuz is gaining momentum, with several countries in the region expressing interest in participating.
The proposal, which was first reported earlier this month, would see Iran pay a fee to use the waterway that connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. The move has been met with skepticism by some analysts who argue it could create new tensions between Iran and its regional neighbors.
However, Oman’s plan is seen as an attempt to find a mutually beneficial solution for all parties involved. “We are open to negotiations on this matter,” said Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, the Omani monarch. “The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway that connects our region with the rest of the world.”
Oman’s plan would see Iran pay a fee ranging from $10 million to $20 million per year for each vessel that uses the strait. The fees are expected to be collected by Oman and then distributed among its member states.
The proposal has been welcomed by some Gulf countries, including Qatar and Bahrain. “This is an opportunity for us to diversify our economy and reduce our dependence on oil exports,” said Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Qatari monarch.
However, not all analysts are convinced that Oman’s plan will succeed in finding a mutually beneficial solution. “It’s too little, too late,” said Dr. Ali Nazar Hashemi, an Iranian expert at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. “Iran has been trying to gain control over the Strait of Hormuz since 2003. This proposal is just another attempt by Oman and its neighbors to appease Iran.”
Despite the skepticism, Oman’s plan shows that some Gulf countries are willing to take a risk in order to maintain stability in their region.
The move comes as oil prices continue to fall after a halt in US airstrikes against Iranian targets last month. The decline in oil prices has had significant implications for global markets and economies.
In related news, the United States has warned its allies that it will resume strikes if negotiations on Iran’s access to the Strait of Hormuz fail. “We are prepared to take action if necessary,” said a US official. “The situation is fluid and we need to be vigilant.”
As tensions in the region continue to rise, one thing is clear: the future of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain.
Source: Geo News – World
Based on reporting from Geo News – World.
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