Iran: Nearing agreement with Oman on new Strait of Hormuz maritime route

Iran and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing an agreement for a new maritime route that would transit the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's Foreign Ministry announced. The proposed route is intended to be distinct from current shipping lanes and is designed to uphold the sovereignty and security interests of both nations.

Esmaeil Baqaei, a spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, stated in an interview with state television that "we are about to reach an understanding on a route acceptable to both sides, neither the northern line nor the southern line, but a route that respects the sovereignty of both parties and safeguards our national interests and security."

While the specifics of this new route remain undisclosed, Iran has maintained control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which approximately 20% of the global oil demand passes daily, since February 28. Earlier reports from the Iranian news agency IRNA quoted Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicating that negotiations with Oman, another littoral state of the Strait, were progressing as planned and entering their final stages.

Baqaei emphasized that the potential consensus between Iran and Oman on a new route is separate from any decisions concerning the reopening or continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He attributed any blockade to the United States, accusing Washington of violating its commitments.

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we are about to reach an understanding on a route acceptable to both sides, neither the northern line nor the southern line, but a route that respects the sovereignty of both parties and safeguards our national interests and security.