Washington: The United States has issued a sharp warning against any attempt to impose transit charges in the Strait of Hormuz, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stating that Washington would respond aggressively to any move seen as disrupting global shipping through the strategic waterway.
In a strongly worded statement, Bessent said the US government would not accept any system that interferes with free navigation in the strait, a key route for international oil shipments. He warned that individuals, companies, or financial institutions found assisting such efforts could face American sanctions.
The remarks came amid rising tensions in West Asia and growing concerns over maritime security in the Gulf region. Bessent specifically referenced Oman during his comments, saying the US had made its position clear to Omani officials regarding any proposal linked to transit tolls.
According to the Treasury Secretary, he spoke directly with Oman’s ambassador and was assured that no such plans were being considered. He described the idea as unacceptable and cautioned that any involvement in facilitating restrictions or charges in the waterway could trigger financial penalties from Washington.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important energy corridors, carrying a major share of global oil and gas exports. Any disruption in the area has the potential to impact international energy markets and fuel prices worldwide.
Despite the geopolitical uncertainty, Bessent claimed oil markets had remained relatively stable. He noted that crude prices had fallen during May and suggested there could be additional declines if tensions ease further. He also pointed to increasing supply expectations and ongoing shipping activity in the Gulf.
The Treasury Secretary further argued that the current US administration had succeeded in bringing Iran into discussions over its nuclear programme, something he claimed previous administrations had failed to achieve. He credited a combination of economic pressure and strategic actions for pushing Tehran toward negotiations.
At the same time, Washington is also preparing additional restrictions targeting Iranian state-owned airlines. Under the proposed measures, companies or airports providing services such as refuelling, ticketing, or landing access to sanctioned Iranian carriers could themselves face penalties.
However, Bessent clarified that humanitarian and religious travel would not be blocked entirely. He said Iranian citizens travelling for pilgrimages to Mecca or Medina, along with individuals travelling for approved humanitarian reasons, would still be permitted under certain exemptions.
The latest comments reflect the increasingly confrontational tone between Washington and Tehran as both sides navigate tensions involving regional security, economic sanctions, and nuclear diplomacy.
Analysts say the statements are likely to intensify diplomatic pressure across the Gulf region, particularly among countries seeking to maintain balanced relations with both the United States and Iran while protecting critical trade routes.
