Key Points:
- .Diplomats stress cooperation to restore regional stability.
- Iran blames U.S. actions for insecurity in the strait.
- Recent lull in fighting boosts hopes for de-escalation.
ISLAMABAD: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed security in the Strait of Hormuz during a telephone call on Tuesday.
The two foreign ministers spoke as stakeholders in the Middle East conflict have stepped up diplomatic engagement following months of hostilities between Iran and the US.
Iranian and Omani ministers call
Araghchi also held a separate call with Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi, according to Iranian state television.
The two ministers stressed the need to strengthen cooperation and advance joint diplomatic efforts to establish stability in the region and address security concerns affecting the Strait of Hormuz, the broadcaster reported.
Iranian state media said Tehran attributed the insecurity in the strategic waterway to what it described as “the aggressive actions of the United States.”
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, carrying about 20 per cent of global oil consumption and serving as the principal export route for oil producers in the Gulf region.
Iran has maintained control over the strait since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict on Feb. 28, disrupting commercial shipping and raising concerns over global energy supplies and trade flows. On the other hand, the US has imposed what it calls a naval blockade of Iran.
Hostilities have eased in recent days, however, raising cautious hopes that diplomatic efforts by regional powers could help prevent further escalation and ensure the continued security of maritime trade through the Arabian Gulf.
