Iran’s foreign ministry says close to deal with Oman on Hormuz route

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, reported on Sunday that his nation and Oman are nearing an agreement on an alternative maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz, distinct from the current channels. In an interview with state television, Baqaei emphasized that the new route would respect the sovereignty of both states and safeguard national interests and security.

He did not disclose specific details about the new route, but Iran has maintained control over the strategic waterway, which accounts for approximately 20% of global oil consumption under normal circumstances, since the onset of war on February 28. According to IRNA state news agency, foreign minister Abbas Araghchi stated that talks with Oman, the other littoral state on the Strait, were in their final stages.

However, Muscat had not yet commented on the matter. Baqaei clarified that the proposed new route is unrelated to the Strait of Hormuz's reopening or closure. He blamed the United States for the closure, accusing Washington of breaching its commitments and imposing hostile measures against Iran during this period. Iran and the US signed a deal in mid-June to end months of hostilities, which included provisions regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington toward a broader agreement.

However, the deal fell apart after Iran and the US accused each other of violating its terms, followed by US attacks on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory strikes in the region.