Iran to Finalize New Strait of Hormuz Route with Oman; Tehran States It Doesn't Mean Reopening

Iran and Oman are close to finalizing an agreement on a new maritime route that bypasses the existing shipping lanes through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that Tehran and Muscat authorities are nearing consensus on a route that respects both nations' sovereignty and secures their interests and safety.

Baqaei stressed that the establishment of this new route is independent of whether the Strait of Hormuz remains open or is blockaded. He attributed the current blockade to the United States, accusing Washington of breaking its promises. While details of the new route remain undisclosed, it is understood to be distinct from the northern and southern corridors currently in use.

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We are about to reach a consensus on a route acceptable to both parties, neither the northern route nor the southern route, but a route that respects the sovereignty of both sides and maintains our country's interests and security.

This development occurs against a backdrop of significantly reduced vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which approximately 20% of global oil demand passes on weekdays. Iran has effectively controlled the strait since February 28. Earlier reports from the Iranian Foreign Ministry indicated that negotiations with Oman, another littoral state of the strait, were in their final stages.

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Whether Iran and Oman reach consensus on a new route has nothing to do with whether the Strait of Hormuz will reopen or remain blockaded.