▲ U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives in Abu Dhabi, UAE
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on June 23 (local time) that the Strait of Hormuz is an "international waterway," expressing opposition to Iran's attempts to impose tolls.
According to reports from AFP and Reuters, Secretary Rubio told reporters upon his arrival in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that "no country can impose tolls or fees on an international waterway. That is existing international law."
"I don't think there is anyone in this region (the Gulf region) we need to convince regarding this. I believe all countries in this region share our view," Rubio emphasized.
While Iran is expected to keep the Strait of Hormuz open for free for 60 days under a previous Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), it is speculated that the country may attempt to collect tolls under various pretexts once this period expires.
A joint statement was also released on this day regarding the review of transit service fees in coordination with Oman.
The imposition of tolls in the Strait of Hormuz could potentially become a burden for the Gulf states along the Persian Gulf coast.
Secretary Rubio is scheduled to visit three Gulf nations—the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain—through June 25.
When asked whether he would address the concerns of Gulf states regarding the MOU, such as the omission of limitations on Iran's missile capabilities, as well as the issue of the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio replied, "That issue will certainly be raised in the discussions."
Previously, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated during a press briefing that its missile program "has never been part of our talks (with the U.S.), and it will never be a subject of negotiation with any party in the future."
Regarding speculation that he would request Gulf states to participate in a $300 billion Iranian reconstruction fund included in the MOU, Secretary Rubio drew a line, stating that it is "far down the road" and that no such discussions would take place until there is "action" from Iran.
Reuters noted that Secretary Rubio's current tour is aimed at reassuring Gulf states, which have been hit hard by the U.S.-Iran war and have raised complaints and concerns regarding the contents of the MOU.
The report also added that while Vice President J.D. Vance has been leading the conclusion of the post-war MOU with Iran and subsequent negotiations, Secretary Rubio's tour is seen as an effort to strike a diplomatic balance with regional allies, given his relatively distanced stance on the matter.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
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