Iran Considers Easing Stance on Strait of Hormuz Mine Clearance

**Tehran:** Iran is reportedly considering a significant shift in its position as diplomatic efforts continue to end the five-month crisis in the Strait of Hormuz and restore global maritime trade.

According to international media reports, multiple diplomatic sources have confirmed that Tehran is reviewing, for the first time, the possibility of allowing European countries to conduct mine-clearing operations in the strategically vital waterway.

Iranian sources said the potential policy change is aimed at ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels and oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes.

Diplomatic sources said any approval for European-led mine clearance would be subject to several conditions. These include guarantees for the safety of European naval vessels, a ceasefire or a substantial reduction in regional tensions, approval from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and strict limitations ensuring the operation is conducted solely to restore humanitarian and commercial shipping.

While no final agreement has been reached, sources said negotiations are moving in a positive direction.

The reported development marks a notable departure from Iran’s longstanding position, under which Tehran had consistently opposed the involvement of any foreign military or naval force in mine-clearing or security operations within the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic sources added that recent closed-door talks have shown increased flexibility from Iranian officials, with ongoing discussions involving Iran, Oman, and Western countries placing priority on restoring safe navigation through the strategic waterway.

Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that Iran and Oman had reached an understanding on the geographical coordinates of the proposed maritime route.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying a substantial share of globally traded crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Months of conflict and concerns over naval mines have severely disrupted shipping, increased insurance costs, and affected global oil supplies.

If European-supervised mine-clearing operations are approved, they could help restore international commercial shipping, reduce maritime insurance premiums, and strengthen the stability of global energy markets.