Qatar has stated that it opposes the introduction of permanent shipping fees in the Strait of Hormuz, but remains open to discussing temporary and targeted charges.
This was said by Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qatars Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, during the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore.
According to him, permanent tariffs would ultimately place an additional burden on consumers, which is why Gulf countries do not support such an approach. However, he noted that temporary financial mechanisms for critical measures such as maritime safety, mine clearance, and other security-related operations could be considered.
He emphasized that security in strategic maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz remains a top priority for regional states, and that a coordinated approach among countries is necessary.
