DID Press: European countries are reportedly reviewing a proposal led by Oman to introduce navigation fees for ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, with the payments expected to be voluntary.
According to The Guardian, European states are examining a mechanism that would allow vessels using the waterway to contribute toward navigation and maritime security costs. However, Europe would only support the proposal if the payments remain voluntary and are not imposed as a mandatory charge.
The report said the initiative is modeled on arrangements used in the Strait of Malacca and was developed by Oman in cooperation with a group of British lawyers.
The proposed framework aims to help cover costs related to maritime navigation and security in one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
The report added that Oman has suggested sending legal experts to Tehran to explain the legal and technical aspects of the proposal.
So far, officials from Iran, the European Union, and Oman have not made official comments on the details of the initiative or the status of discussions.