MUSCAT — Iran is seeking to prohibit U.S. and Israeli vessels from transiting the Strait of Hormuz under a proposed maritime framework being reviewed in Tehran, while negotiations over a broader arrangement to restore commercial shipping through the strategic waterway remain unresolved, according to Iranian state media and U.S. officials.
The draft proposal, which Iranian media said is under review by a parliamentary committee, would bar ships linked to the United States, Israel and other countries designated as "hostile" from passing through the strait. It would also impose transit fees on most commercial shipping and authorize penalties for vessels that violate the proposed rules. Iranian state media said the legislation has not been finalized and remains subject to amendment.
The proposal emerged as Tehran and Washington continue indirect efforts to stabilize shipping in the waterway following months of conflict that disrupted one of the world's most important energy transit routes. About one-fifth of global oil consumption normally passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. officials have rejected any arrangement that would allow Iran to restrict navigation or levy tolls on commercial vessels. Washington has insisted that any agreement must guarantee freedom of navigation, reopen all shipping lanes without charges and include a public Iranian commitment to halt attacks on commercial shipping, according to senior U.S. officials.
Iranian officials, however, have maintained that Tehran must retain a central role in managing maritime traffic through the strait. Iranian state media has reported that shipping routes would be coordinated with neighboring Oman under a proposed framework, although Omani authorities have not publicly confirmed those details.
The competing positions have underscored the remaining gaps despite signs of progress in negotiations. Reuters reported earlier that investors interpreted ongoing talks as reducing the immediate risk of renewed disruptions, contributing to lower oil prices after an earlier rally driven by concerns over Iran's legislative proposal.
Analysts have questioned whether any agreement involving Iranian transit fees or restrictions on specific countries' vessels could be implemented, citing international maritime law, existing sanctions and insurance requirements for commercial shipping. U.S. officials have likewise said they would not accept measures that impede free passage through the international waterway.
As of Friday, Iranian lawmakers had not approved the draft proposal, and negotiations over a broader Strait of Hormuz arrangement were continuing without a final agreement announced by either side.
