Rubio Addresses Iran’s Toll Charges on Ships in Hormuz Strait

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted international law to clarify that Iran cannot impose tolls on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking to reporters after his arrival in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Tuesday, Rubio emphasized that Iran wouldn’t be allowed to charge fees to ships navigating the strait, insisting that regional allies support this position.

“No country is allowed to charge tolls or fees on an international waterway. That’s existing international law,” Rubio stated.

This trip marks Rubio’s first stop in a three-day visit to the Middle East, during which he will also visit Kuwait and Bahrain. According to State Department Spokesperson Thomas Pigott, discussions will focus on the recent U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding (MOU) and ensuring free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, among other topics.

Rubio’s remarks align with President Donald Trump’s comments made over the weekend, where he asserted that Iran would not be charging tolls for the 60-day period following the signing of the MOU, or beyond that time frame.

“There will be NO TOLLS in the Hormuz Strait for 60 days during the Cease Fire Period, and there will be NO TOLLS after the 60-day period has expired, unless they are imposed by and for the United States of America, should the deal not be completed, for services rendered as the Guardian Angel to the countries of the Middle East for purposes of both past, present, and future reimbursement of costs,” Trump remarked.

While in Bahrain, Rubio is also set to meet with members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.