Oman, Iran to continue talks on Strait of Hormuz navigation

Oman and Iran have committed to advancing discussions on the management of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Following talks in Muscat, the two nations announced the formation of a joint working group under their foreign ministries to continue these dialogues.

This initiative is set to implement a recent memorandum of understanding, which calls for Iran to engage with Oman and other Gulf coastal states on the future administration of navigation and maritime services within the strait. The agreement was solidified during a visit by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who met with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi.

Both Oman and Iran, the two countries bordering the strait, reiterated their dedication to ensuring safe passage in accordance with international law. They also emphasized their sovereignty over territorial waters. The Strait of Hormuz has experienced disruptions, including closures to commercial shipping, particularly since the start of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran in February, which saw the U.S. blockade Iranian ports after Iran began blocking the strait. The two nations reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the strait as a secure and open route for international navigation, promoting maritime safety, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.

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Oman and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to the strait being a secure and open route for international navigation and to promoting maritime safety, freedom of navigation and regional stability.