Will Strait of Hormuz really become Toll-Free after US-Iran Peace Deal?
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
ISLAMABAD – US and Iran agreed in principle to Peace framework, with plans to reopen Strait of Hormuz and allow shipping to pass vessels, but the deal is still in its early stages as a memorandum of understanding are still being worked out in ongoing negotiations, and concerns remain for ships to pay Toll introduced after US-Israeli military escalation with Iran. Reports by Iranian media said the proposed memorandum of understanding outlines transitional framework rather than a permanent arrangement and waterway’s reopening will be closely managed in line with conditions after years of disruption and conflict in the region. Under draft structure, Iran and Oman would take on joint responsibility for overseeing maritime operations in the strategic chokepoint. Their roles would reportedly include coordinating essential services such as navigation support, maritime safety monitoring, environmental protection, and insurance-related facilitation for vessels transiting the Strait. The arrangement suggests that Tehran would derive economic benefit from the system, with revenues generated through these maritime service functions flowing into its domestic economy. However, the proposal is described as temporary and experimental in nature, with the 60-day toll-free period framed as an initial phase rather than a long-term policy. Further negotiations are expected to determine whether the system is extended, modified, or replaced in future agreements. US President Donald Trump claimed that US an Iran struck agreement aimed to end hostilities, reopening critical maritime routes, and launching a new phase of nuclear negotiations. In his recent interview, Trump said the deal would restore full access to the Strait of Hormuz, saying it would become “permanently toll-free” under the arrangement. He also said a US naval blockade of Iran would be lifted as part of the agreement. According to his account, the deal is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland, with Pakistan acting a