They address security concerns while Washington warns against any attempt to impose transit fees.

During a telephone conversation on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi discussed regional security concerns, including the Strait of Hormuz and the status of frozen financial assets.

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“In very productive call with FM Badr bin Hamad, I expressed Iran’s solidarity with Oman in face of any threat. We discussed Hormuz and its future administration in line with our sovereign responsibilities and international law. We welcome consultation with all neighboring states,” the Iranian diplomat stated.

In his message, Araghchi made an implicit reference to threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump against Oman if the Arab country attempted to control the strait. “Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we will have to blow them up,” the Republican leader said.

The Persian nation has shown its intention to maintain control of the Strait of Hormuz, which it has blocked since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran began Feb. 28. Initially, Iran said it would require payment of a toll for transit through the strategic passage, but it later said it would not charge for passage itself, although it would charge for a series of “navigation services” and measures to protect the environment.

U.S. Threatens Sanctions on Oman if It Collects Tolls

On Thursday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened sanctions against Oman if the country joins Iran in collecting tolls for transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

“The U.S. Government will not tolerate any effort to impose a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz. Oman, in particular, should know that the Treasury Department will take aggressive action against any actor involved — directly or indirectly — in facilitating tolls in the strait, and any partner willing to do so will be sanctioned,” he said.

His statements came after press reports indicated that Oman was working with Iran to jointly charge a toll on vessels transiting through the strait, which is key to global crude oil trade.

“All nations should categorically reject any effort by Iran to disrupt the free flow of commerce,” Bessent stressed.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: EFE – AP

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