Oman and Iran Discuss Ensuring Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

Oman and Iran have engaged in deputy foreign minister-level discussions to facilitate the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by the Omani Foreign Ministry. The meeting, held on Saturday, included undersecretaries from both nations' foreign ministries and specialists from each side. The focus was on exploring options to ensure smooth transit through the strait amid current regional circumstances. Experts presented various proposals, which are set to undergo further study.

On Sunday, three Omani ships, comprising two large oil supertankers and one liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, were observed transiting the Strait of Hormuz outside Iran's "approved corridor" near Larak Island, according to tracking data monitored by shipping journal Lloyd’s List. The vessels were noted to be sailing unusually close to the Omani coast.

These developments follow statements from an Iranian official indicating that Iran is drafting a protocol with Oman to monitor traffic in the strait, a critical chokepoint through which about a fifth of global oil supplies pass. Iran has imposed severe restrictions on the waterway in response to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with the country.

Since the conflict began on February 28, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has permitted transit for certain vessels, including those linked to Pakistan, France, and Turkey, while approximately 3,000 others remain stranded.

The Strait of Hormuz is vital for global energy shipments, particularly oil and gas exports from the Gulf to Europe and Asia. Disruptions have led to market volatility and prompted importing nations to seek alternative sources. U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened significant military action if the strait is not reopened by Monday.

In related diplomatic efforts, Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held discussions with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and regional counterparts, including Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, to explore proposals for regional de-escalation.

Amin Saikal, professor emeritus at the Australian National University, emphasized the potential regional consequences of escalating conflict, stating that an expansion of the war "is going to be hell for the whole region" and underscoring the need for a negotiated settlement.