Overview
- Iranian officials and state media say Tehran will levy a 'maritime service fee' on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz and cite language that recognizes joint Iran‑Oman administration of the waterway.
- The reported changes come from a draft, unsigned memorandum that negotiators circulated to reopen the strait for a limited period and that Iran says limits toll‑free passage to 60 days.
- U.S. officials publicly maintain a goal of long‑term toll‑free passage and President Trump and Vice President JD Vance have said the strait should remain without permanent tolls while technical talks continue.
- Recent naval incidents, U.S. strikes on Iranian drone sites, and earlier redirection of commercial ships have left security tensions high and pushed parties to seek a short ceasefire and reopening plan.
- Key sticking points that must be resolved before any signed deal include verification of Iran’s nuclear and uranium commitments, sanctions relief, and clear rules for who administers and enforces any fees.