Scott Bessent has warned that the United States could impose sanctions on Oman if it becomes involved in efforts to introduce a tolling system in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement posted on X on Thursday, Bessent said Washington would “not tolerate any effort to impose a tolling system” in the vital shipping corridor, which handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s energy supplies.
“Oman, in particular, should know that the US Treasury will aggressively target any actors involved directly or indirectly, in facilitating tolls for the Strait and any willing partners will be penalized,” he stated.
The warning follows proposals reportedly backed by Iran as part of broader discussions with Washington over the management of the strategic waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz has become a major flashpoint since the outbreak of conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran earlier this year.
The conflict has significantly disrupted maritime traffic in the region, with Tehran accused of effectively blocking parts of the strait in retaliation for military operations against it, triggering sharp increases in global energy and fertilizer prices.
Oman previously acted as a mediator in indirect talks between the United States and Iran held in Geneva before the escalation of hostilities. However, Muscat has also reportedly faced attacks linked to the regional tensions.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump appeared to issue a separate warning regarding any arrangement that would allow Oman and Iran to jointly control the strait.
Speaking to reporters, Trump reportedly said he would “blow them up” if such a deal materialised. The White House did not immediately clarify whether the president intended to refer solely to Iran.
Earlier on Thursday, the US Treasury announced sanctions against Iran’s newly established “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” the agency responsible for collecting transit fees in the waterway.
Washington also warned that companies or governments paying such fees could face sanctions for allegedly providing support or services linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.
Meanwhile, tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high despite an ongoing ceasefire agreement reached in April.
Both countries on Thursday accused each other of violating the truce following renewed exchanges of fire, marking the most serious escalation since the ceasefire was announced.
Indirect negotiations aimed at ending the conflict have continued through international mediators, although no breakthrough has yet been achieved.
