'In principle' agreement set between Iran and Oman on new Strait of Hormuz transit route
Tehran says the two countries have agreed on a framework to reopen the strategic waterway as the 60-day deadline for a broader US-Iran deal approaches, with final details still being negotiated
Iran says it has reached an agreement in principle with Oman on a new maritime transit mechanism in the Strait of Hormuz, as a 60-day deadline for reaching a deal to end the war approaches its expiration.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei announced that Tehran and Muscat had reached an agreement on a “route map for transit.” The two countries are now working to finalize the remaining details before issuing a joint statement.
The precise terms of the arrangement have not yet been officially disclosed. However, the framework discussed so far would provide for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, with vessels entering through a route near the Iranian coast and exiting along the Omani side.
During the transitional period, ships would reportedly be allowed to transit without paying passage fees or tolls.
The development comes amid continued diplomatic efforts by Washington to secure an agreement on the reopening of the strategic waterway.
The United States has indicated that it wants arrangements it considers acceptable before lifting its blockade of Iranian ports. It remains unclear whether the agreement reached between Iran and Oman will satisfy US demands.
Baghaei acknowledged that negotiations with Muscat had progressed slowly but said Tehran was determined to finalize the package, including the maritime route map and a joint statement.
The announcement comes as the 60-day deadline for reaching a resolution to the conflict approaches its end, with Washington and Tehran still unable to reach a broader agreement.