GCC rejects fees on Strait of Hormuz crossings

Leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have rejected any fees on ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz, calling for secure and free navigation in the waterway. This stance comes amid heightened regional tensions following Iranian strikes and ongoing disruptions to shipping through the strategic chokepoint. The GCC's position aligns with earlier emergency meetings hosted by Saudi Arabia to coordinate a response to Iranian actions. The Strait of Hormuz has seen a 95% drop in traffic since late February due to the US-Iran conflict.