▲ Strait of Hormuz
The semi-official Iranian Fars News Agency reported that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on ending the conflict between the U.S. and Iran, set to be signed on the 19th (local time), recognizes Iran's right to collect "transit fees" for the Strait of Hormuz.
Citing a well-informed source, the agency reported that the MOU text was revised in the final stages of negotiations to firmly and explicitly emphasize the sovereignty of Iran and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz.
While previous drafts included conditions guaranteeing the exercise of sovereignty and measures by Iran regarding the strait, the final version reportedly includes a clause stating that "future maritime navigation service management in the Strait of Hormuz shall be determined by Iran and Oman."
The source argued that the specific use of the term "maritime services" signifies that the U.S. has officially recognized Iran's right to collect fees.
Fars News Agency reported that this principle is reaffirmed in other clauses of the agreement, and that Iran plans to allow free transit for vessels for only the next 60 days.
The source explained, "The U.S. has accepted the principle of collecting transit fees and has merely secured a 60-day grace period (discount) from Iran."
After the 60-day grace period expires, Iran plans to collect fees from merchant ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for providing safety, navigation, environmental, and insurance services, and will use these funds for national economic development, according to Fars News Agency.
The report added, "The issue of cooperation with Oman, the country across the Strait of Hormuz, which was a key prerequisite for collecting transit fees, has also been resolved," noting that "essential negotiations to include Oman in this measure have already been completed."
Previously, President Trump stated in an interview with the New York Times (NYT) the day before that the agreement with Iran would ultimately guarantee "permanent toll-free passage" through the Strait of Hormuz.
President Trump also posted on the social media platform Truth Social, stating, "I fully approve of the toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and at the same time, I approve of the immediate lifting of the U.S. Navy's blockade."
In this report, Fars News Agency used the word "hazine," which refers to a "fee" for services provided, rather than "avarez," which refers to a "toll" imposed by a government.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.