No country can impose tolls or fees on Strait of Hormuz, says Marco Rubio
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
ABU DHABI – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that no country can impose tolls or fees on Strait of Hormuz. He made these remarks while talking to the journalists after arriving in Abu Dhabi to consult Gulf allies on the emerging Iran-US agreement and to provide assurances over regional security concerns, according to American media reports. His visit comes as Washington seeks to coordinate closely with Gulf states amid ongoing diplomatic efforts with Tehran. The latest reports suggested the United States is expected to reassure regional partners about its security commitments during the discussions. Upon arrival, Rubio reiterated Washington’s position on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, stating that it is an international waterway under global law. He emphasized that no country has the authority to impose tolls or fees on its passage. He said that imposing charges or taxes on international sea routes would violate international law, adding that he believed regional countries broadly support the US stance on freedom of navigation. Rubio further stated that Iran must operate as a conventional state rather than pursuing revolutionary activities, arguing that significant development opportunities would emerge if Tehran followed state-based governance norms. He added that regional stability cannot be achieved as long as Iranian-linked proxy groups continue attacks in neighbouring countries. He also expressed concern over missile and drone attacks originating from Iraq, calling them a serious threat to regional peace. He alleged that groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah maintain influence in Iraq and are involved in destabilising activities, issues he said would likely be addressed in future US-Iran discussions. Meanwhile, earlier this week, Oman and Iran issued a joint statement indicating that both sides are reviewing the future management of the Strait of Hormuz and the possibility of service-related fees for maritime passage. The developments highlight gr