Germany Warns Against Toll System in Strait of Hormuz

21/06/2026

Germany Warns Against Toll System in Strait of Hormuz

BERLIN, Jun 21: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned on Sunday against establishing a toll system for the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that the key sea lane must remain freely navigable under international law.

Speaking at a public forum at the Foreign Ministry during the German government’s Open House in Berlin, Wadephul said the strait, which is vital for global energy supplies, must remain open to free passage, according to the German Press Agency ( dpa ).

He said the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran contains unclear wording, raising concerns over whether free navigation is “truly 100 percent guaranteed.”

Wadephul added that Germany would place strong emphasis on ensuring free passage through the Strait of Hormuz and would consider the issue when deciding whether, when, and how to lift sanctions against Iran.

“If that happens, I believe the oil price could normalize relatively quickly,” he said.

US President Donald Trump has previously threatened to impose a US toll in the Strait of Hormuz if a final peace agreement is not reached.

Under the framework agreement, Iran is not allowed to charge fees during the 60-day negotiation period. Iran is expected to discuss future arrangements with Oman in line with international law and with the involvement of neighboring countries