Iran, Oman reach understanding on Hormuz shipping route coordinates, final statement pending
Iran and Oman have reached a mutual understanding on the geographic coordinates for a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei. Speaking on Wednesday, Mr. Baghaei said a joint announcement is in the final stages of review and drafting, provided that certain third parties do not obstruct the process.
The spokesperson described the negotiations between Tehran and Muscat as “professional” and “moving forward.” He added that the two sides had reached a consensus on the geographical parameters of the route under discussion. However, he cautioned that any such agreement between Iran and Oman would not, by itself, guarantee security in the strategic waterway.
Reuters reported earlier on Wednesday, citing a senior Iranian source and two regional officials, that the proposed deal would give Tehran control over ships entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. This would mark one of the most significant concessions to Iran in the ongoing regional tensions. The sources, however, pushed back against assertions by U.S. President Donald Trump that a deal reopening the strait was imminent, saying important details still had to be agreed.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime passage through which about a fifth of global oil consumption passes. The region has seen heightened tensions in recent months, with the West Asia conflict affecting shipping lanes and raising concerns about supply disruptions.
Neither the Omani government nor Iranian authorities have publicly released the full details of the proposed route coordinates. The final joint statement, if issued, would outline the main considerations and key points of understanding between the two countries.
Analysts note that any agreement involving Iran’s role in managing the waterway would have significant implications for international shipping and regional diplomacy. The United States and other nations have previously stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The development comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. While the understanding between Iran and Oman is a step forward, observers caution that the broader security situation remains complex and dependent on multiple stakeholders.
