Iran proposes temporary plan to Oman for reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran has presented a proposal to Oman for a temporary plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global trade route. The proposed plan stipulates that all one-way shipping traffic would transit through Iranian waters. Additionally, parts of the return route would also be situated within Iranian maritime territory.

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi informed state television that Iran has rejected a counter-proposal from Oman advocating for an equitable distribution of transit routes between the two nations. Gharibabadi stated that Oman's plan does not adequately address Iran's security interests, particularly given the ongoing lack of long-term stability in the region.

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Iran has rejected a proposal from Oman for an equal distribution of transit routes between the two countries. He said that the plan does not serve Iranian security interests as long as there is no long-term stability in the region.

Gharibabadi further warned that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed to shipping traffic if Oman rejects Iran's proposed plan. The Strait, situated between Iran and Oman at the entrance to the Persian Gulf, is considered one of the world's most critical trade routes, especially for oil transport.

This development follows reports from Western and Gulf diplomats who confirmed Oman had presented a plan to Iran for reopening the strait, reportedly supported by Gulf states. This plan allegedly includes provisions for users of the strait to voluntarily pay for passage. Iran has effectively controlled the strait since February, following attacks by the U.S. and Israel. A previous agreement in June to reopen the strait failed when Iran fired on ships in July.

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Gharibabadi said that the Hormuz Strait remains closed for shipping traffic if Oman rejects Iran's proposal.