Oman and Iran agree on transit rules for Strait of Hormuz

Omani and Iranian officials held deputy foreign minister-level talks on Saturday, discussing ways to ensure smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting was attended by undersecretaries from both countries’ foreign ministries, as well as specialists from both sides.

According to the Omani Foreign Ministry, possible options were discussed regarding ensuring safe transit of vessels through the strait during the current regional circumstances. Experts presented various visions and proposals that will be studied.

On Sunday, three Omani ships were spotted transiting the Strait of Hormuz, outside Iran’s approved corridor near Larak Island. The convoy consisted of two large oil supertankers and one liquefied natural gas carrier sailing close to the Omani coast.

Iran has restricted traffic in the strait since the US-Israeli war on the country began on February 28. About 3,000 vessels are stranded, while some have been allowed to pass through, including Pakistani, French, and Turkish-linked vessels.

The United States President Donald Trump threatened to unleash “all Hell” if the strait is not opened by Monday. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held separate calls with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and regional counterparts, including Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

A professor at the Australian National University stated that an expansion of the war would have severe consequences for the region. He emphasized the need for a negotiated settlement, but noted that the door for a diplomatic solution appears narrow at this stage.

Source: Al Jazeera