TEHRAN: Iran has announced progress in negotiations with Oman on the future management of the Strait of Hormuz, signalling continued diplomatic engagement over one of the world’s most strategically significant maritime routes.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said several rounds of talks were held in Tehran on Friday and Saturday between senior Iranian and Omani officials, led by the two countries’ deputy foreign ministers.
The discussions centred on developing shared principles and practical mechanisms to ensure the safe passage of commercial shipping while safeguarding the sovereign rights of both nations.
Baqaei described the negotiations as “useful” and said the two sides had achieved positive progress. He added that technical and political consultations would continue as both countries work towards a mutually acceptable framework for managing the vital waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz, bordered by Iran and Oman, serves as one of the world’s busiest energy transit corridors, carrying a substantial share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports.
The latest diplomatic engagement comes amid heightened regional tensions. The United States recently resumed military strikes against Iran following a brief reduction in hostilities that had followed a Pakistan-mediated memorandum of understanding reached in June.
Washington has sought to curb Tehran’s influence over the strategic passage, which remains central to regional security and global energy markets.
Earlier in June, Tehran and Muscat said they would discuss the introduction of transit service fees for vessels using the strait, a proposal opposed by the United States.
Oman also stated that ships could use its territorial waters to transit the waterway, a position that drew criticism from Iran and contributed to renewed tensions between the neighbouring countries.
On Saturday, Iranian officials said they had not recorded any new US attacks after nearly two weeks of military strikes.
Meanwhile, Axios reported that the Pentagon had presented US President Donald Trump with plans for a 14th consecutive night of strikes against Iran.
According to the report, Trump chose not to approve the operation, opting instead to give diplomacy another opportunity after an Omani delegation arrived in Tehran for discussions on a possible new arrangement concerning the reopening and management of the Strait of Hormuz.
Responding to questions about maritime activity, Baqaei said there had been no changes to shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that commercial navigation continues despite the ongoing diplomatic and security developments.
