Iran, Oman agree route for ships transiting Strait of Hormuz

Iran and Oman have reached an agreement on a route for ships traversing the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran's Foreign Ministry. This strategic waterway, which once handled roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports before the Iran war, has been under de facto Iranian control since the US and Israel initiated their war against the country on February 28.

Despite US President Donald Trump's repeated assertions that Tehran desires a deal to reopen the shipping route, Iran maintains that it will collaborate with its neighbor across the strait, Oman. The precise coordinates of the route have been agreed upon, and a joint statement outlining the main points of agreement is currently undergoing final review and drafting.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that talks with Oman are progressing, though he cautioned that even if an understanding is reached, it would not automatically render the strait safe for all vessels. Baqaei noted that the factors contributing to the insecurity of the Strait of Hormuz persist, specifically the US naval blockade and other aggressive actions against Iran and its interests.