Iran, Oman Near Deal on New Strait of Hormuz Shipping Mechanism

Iran says it is close to reaching an agreement with Oman on a new mechanism for maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, but the arrangement would not mean the strategic waterway will immediately be fully reopened.

According to international media reports, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the remarks while speaking to reporters. He said discussions between Iran and Oman on shipping routes, legal arrangements and administrative procedures for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz have entered their final stage.

Araghchi said some technical and legal complications regarding shipping routes in the strait still remain. Iran and Oman are therefore considering establishing an interim route to facilitate maritime traffic.

He added that the temporary route could eventually serve as the basis for a permanent or main shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz.

However, Araghchi stressed that an agreement with Oman alone would not be sufficient to fully reopen the waterway. Broader issues with the United States would also need to be resolved.

The Iranian foreign minister said those conditions include addressing what Tehran considers previous violations of understandings by the United States.

Araghchi’s remarks came shortly after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that the Strait of Hormuz would only be fully reopened if the United States accepts all of Iran’s conditions.

The IRGC has described the strait as more than just a commercial shipping route, calling it an important strategic asset for Iran. It has also warned that outside interference could complicate negotiations.

### Where Do Iran-Oman Talks Stand?

Reports indicate that the main objective of the Iran-Oman negotiations is to establish a workable route for the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

One proposal under discussion involves separating the routes used by vessels passing through Iranian- and Omani-controlled maritime areas. The aim is to better regulate shipping during the current tensions and reduce the risk of accidents or collisions.

However, Iran has made clear that even if a new maritime arrangement is reached, the full restoration of normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will depend on meeting security and broader political conditions.