Rubio says Gulf nations oppose tolling system in Hormuz Strait

Investing.com -- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Thursday that Gulf countries showed no support for any tolling or fee system in the Strait of Hormuz during meetings held in the region.

"One thing that came across very clear is there is zero support, zero support among the Gulf countries for any sort of toll or fees or anything that charges for the use of international waters," Rubio told reporters in Bahrain.

The secretary of state clarified that "fees and tolls are the same thing" and stated that a tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz would not be workable.

Rubio said he held a productive meeting with Gulf countries and confirmed that the U.S. will not take any actions that undermine its partners in the region. Oman specifically stated at the meeting that it does not favor a Hormuz toll, according to Rubio.

The secretary addressed Iran-related matters, stating that an MOU with Iran covers interference in other countries. He said the U.S. focuses on Iranian actions rather than rhetoric, noting that Iran’s system continues to be led by radical clerics. Rubio added that if Iran uses funds to support proxy groups, any deal would not work.

Rubio confirmed that Vice President Vance is leading Iran negotiations, which demonstrates the seriousness of the talks. He said President Trump has multiple options available if negotiations with Iran do not succeed.

On other regional issues, Rubio said the U.S. is monitoring incidents between Israel and Lebanon and is close to reaching an initial agreement between the two countries.

The secretary also addressed Venezuela, stating the U.S. will provide search and rescue assistance as part of a whole-of-government response following recent earthquakes.

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