Iran and Oman are edging closer to an agreement that could reopen a key shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, potentially easing one of the biggest disruptions to global energy supplies.
The two countries’ foreign ministers met in Tehran on Tuesday to discuss a proposed framework for restoring maritime traffic through the strategic waterway.
Under the plan, Iran and Oman would establish a temporary joint navigation corridor through the strait while working together on a mine-clearing operation.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi agreed on a phased framework designed to provide a practical basis for restoring safe passage through the waterway.
Albusaidi later expressed hope that the temporary corridor would be announced soon, while stressing that discussions on a permanent arrangement would continue.
Permanent Solution Still Ahead
The proposed corridor would only be an interim measure. Iran and Oman are expected to continue technical negotiations over a permanent navigation route and the future administration of the Strait of Hormuz.
The talks will also address traffic management, information-sharing and the provision of navigational and security services.
Both countries said other states bordering the Gulf should be involved in discussions about the future of the strategic waterway.
Trump Warns Against New Mines
The diplomatic development comes as US President Donald Trump issued a warning over the threat of mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump said the US Navy had reported that mines in international waters had been removed or detonated. He warned that any vessel found placing new mines would face immediate military action.
The comments underline the continuing security concerns surrounding the waterway as Iran, Oman and other regional and international powers seek to restore maritime traffic.
Why the Strait Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints, with roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports normally passing through it.
The current disruption has severely affected shipping and added pressure to global energy markets.
Iran and Oman have been negotiating a way forward for weeks, with Iranian officials saying the geographical coordinates for a proposed navigation route have already been agreed.
However, Tehran has made clear that it is not prepared to fully reopen the strait until the United States addresses several of its demands, including lifting its naval blockade, removing oil sanctions and unfreezing Iranian assets held overseas.
For now, the proposed temporary corridor could represent the first significant step toward restoring movement through the strategically vital waterway — but a full reopening remains dependent on further negotiations.
