Iran and the U.S. ceasefire, Oman enjoys a windfall — jointly collecting tolls from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz with Iran
After more than a month of intense conflict, all parties are exhausted. Now, a two-week ceasefire has been announced, finally bringing a temporary halt to hostilities in the Middle East. Yet one country has not only escaped the war unscathed but also unexpectedly profited — a true case of "lying back and reaping benefits." That country is Oman.
According to informed sources, during this two-week ceasefire, Iran will collect passage fees from vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz based on previously established standards — and Oman will receive a share as well.
Iran’s portion will undoubtedly go toward post-war reconstruction. As for how Oman will handle this sudden influx of funds, it remains unclear — after all, suddenly acquiring such a large sum requires careful planning.
On the other hand, compared to other Gulf states, Oman has suffered the fewest attacks, and its key facilities have remained intact. Iran’s foreign minister even apologized specifically for this, stating that Oman was not an intended target of Iranian retaliation and that future incidents will be avoided whenever possible.
Both countries collecting fees isn’t Iran compensating Oman for damages — it’s simply due to geography. The strait’s coastline is shared between the two nations, so any vessel passing through must traverse both countries’ territorial waters. If Iran alone collected fees, it would be difficult to justify both legally and morally.
Conversely, collecting fees jointly with Oman not only provides a plausible explanation to the international community but also helps divide Gulf states: opposing Iran risks retaliation, while staying neutral allows one to earn money passively.
The most ironic part? The U.S. and Israel spent hundreds of billions of dollars waging war — only to end up creating a toll station. Ships used to pass freely before the war, but now they must pay. Even their own vessels might not be allowed through unless they pay extra — truly, they’ve dug their own grave and struck themselves.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861885033191424/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author