US warns Oman: Sanctions threat over Iran's Strait of Hormuz toll plans

The United States has issued a stern warning to Oman, threatening aggressive sanctions should the Gulf nation facilitate Iran's proposed tolling system in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent explicitly stated that "any actors involved – directly or indirectly – in facilitating tolls for the Strait and any willing partners will be penalized." This warning follows earlier rhetoric from President Donald Trump, who reportedly threatened military action against Oman if it interfered with US positions concerning the waterway. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is a critical chokepoint for global energy supply chains, with approximately 20-25% of the world's total seaborne oil trade passing through it annually. Iranian officials had previously announced that Tehran was working with Oman to establish a mechanism to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Strait. However, reports indicate that Oman has since rejected Iran's proposal to jointly collect fees from commercial vessels using the Strait of Hormuz. This rejection comes despite earlier claims from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that an agreement had been reached on revenue sharing. A senior regional official cited by the New York Post stated that Oman declined to approve the proposed charges, even for voluntary environmental and security services, to avoid direct confrontation with the US. Oman's decision also helps it avoid potential conflict with US President Donald Trump, who had previously issued threats of military action if Muscat obstructed US efforts regarding the waterway. The US Treasury has been actively sanctioning entities involved in Iran's efforts to control or disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Notably, the Treasury sanctioned Iran's 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority' (PGSA), which Washington accuses of working with the IRGC to extort vessels. The escalating tensions highlight the crucial role of the Strait of Hormuz in global trade and security, and Oman's delicate position as a mediator between the US and Iran. Oman has historically played a significant role in regional mediation and promoting stability, including its involvement in brokering the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal in 2015 and mediating tensions surrounding past conflicts. The broader context of these events is the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran, which has seen increased attacks on tankers and vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz. These escalations have led to a surge in oil prices and heightened fears of a wider regional war. The US has a long-standing strategic partnership with Oman, dating back to 1833, and has relied on Oman for regional mediation. The US military has also been granted access to Omani facilities, strengthening their bilateral cooperation. Despite the US threats, recent reports suggest that Oman has assured the US of no plans for tolling the waterway. However, the volatile geopolitical situation in the region, coupled with the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, means that tensions are likely to remain high. The article's claims are consistent with statements made by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and President Donald Trump, and are corroborated by multiple reputable news outlets. The date of publication for the original article is May 29, 2026.

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