Iran and Oman have outlined a proposal to jointly establish a temporary shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, as the two countries seek to facilitate maritime traffic and address security concerns surrounding one of the world’s most important energy routes.
According to regional officials, the two sides discussed a phased framework for a joint initiative that would facilitate a “temporary shipping corridor” and support efforts to clear mines from the waterway.
A joint statement from the Iranian and Omani foreign ministries said the countries would continue negotiations with the aim of reaching an agreement on a permanent shipping corridor and a longer-term framework for managing the Strait of Hormuz.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi traveled to Iran on Tuesday and held consultations with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, according to Oman’s state-run Oman News Agency.
Following the talks, Al Busaidi said he hoped the two countries would soon announce a temporary shipping corridor.
The proposed arrangement comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage through which a significant share of global energy supplies normally passes.
Earlier Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump said that all mines in the Strait of Hormuz had been removed or detonated. He also warned that any vessel attempting to lay new mines in the waterway would be destroyed.
The Iranian-Omani initiative could provide a temporary mechanism for restoring maritime traffic while negotiations continue over the longer-term administration and security of the strategic waterway.
The discussions also come as regional governments seek to prevent further disruption to global energy markets amid the broader confrontation between Iran and the United States.
