Oman and Iran have held talks at the deputy foreign minister level to discuss ensuring the smooth passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran effectively restricts access to the vital waterway amid ongoing regional conflict.
Strait of Hormuz Transit Discussions
The meeting, held on Saturday “at the level of undersecretaries in the foreign ministries of the two countries,” included specialists from both sides, according to the Omani Foreign Ministry. Discussions focused on “possible options regarding ensuring the smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz during these circumstances witnessed in the region,” with experts presenting “visions and proposals” for study.
On Sunday, three Omani ships were observed transiting the Strait of Hormuz outside of Iran’s “approved corridor” near Larak Island, according to tracking data from Lloyd’s List. The convoy consisted of two large oil supertankers and one liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier sailing “unusually close to the Omani coast.”
The developments follow an Iranian official’s statement on Thursday regarding a draft protocol with Oman to monitor traffic in the strait, through which approximately 20 percent of global oil supplies travel. Iran has severely restricted access in response to the US-Israeli war.
Since the conflict began on February 28, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has permitted transit for some vessels, including those linked to Pakistan, France, and Turkey. Approximately 3,000 other vessels remain stranded.
Critical Waterway
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments, particularly oil and gas destined for Europe and Asia. Disruptions to the waterway have increased market volatility and prompted importing nations to seek alternative supply sources.
United States President Donald Trump threatened to unleash “all Hell” if the strait is not reopened by Monday, in a social media post over the weekend.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held calls with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and regional counterparts, including Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, to discuss proposals for regional de-escalation, according to the Egyptian ministry.
Amin Saikal, a professor emeritus at the Australian National University, stated that an expansion of the war “is going to be hell for the whole region,” and that “there has to be some kind of negotiated settlement.” He added that a diplomatic solution appears “very narrow” unless President Trump seeks compromise with Iran.
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