Oman condemns ship attacks as Iran sets conditions to reopen strait

Oman has harshly criticized recent assaults on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran is close to reaching an agreement for its reopening, though Iran insists additional conditions must be met. The Foreign Ministry in Muscat labeled the attacks as a "breach of international law and sovereignty over territorial waters," warning of the potential consequences for maritime safety and regional stability.

They did not name the perpetrators but emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere in talks with Iran regarding navigation regulations. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, claimed that both nations were "very close" to a deal on the new shipping route, but highlighted that reopening the waterway depended on factors such as US compensation.

The previous traffic separation scheme is no longer deemed viable by Tehran, and discussions regarding a temporary route are ongoing while permanent route issues are being addressed. Hassan Ghashghavi, Iran's spokesman for the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, stated that a broad framework has been reached, but the final text and joint statement require higher-level approval.

Iran has given six conditions for reopening the strait, including the cessation of US threats and aggression against Iran and its allies, the cessation of the maritime blockade, the withdrawal of US naval and air forces from the region, compensation for losses from past wars, the removal of sanctions, and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has echoed Iran's stance, asserting that the strait's reopening hinges on Washington's acceptance of Iran's conditions. The UAE reported that Iran utilized a missile to target a vessel linked to its state oil company while it was traversing the strait, resulting in a fire that was swiftly extinguished without any environmental harm.

The Strait of Hormuz, which previously accommodated approximately one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments, has been subject to stringent restrictions by Iran since the US and Israeli strikes on February 28. This disruption has led to heightened global energy prices, inflation, and tension. A US official indicated that Washington anticipates an imminent Iran-Oman agreement, which would facilitate the resumption of normal oil traffic, coupled with the US lifting its blockade on Iranian ports.

However, US officials have consistently opposed Iran's demand for control over ships entering the Gulf via the strait. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed that the timing was opportune for an agreement, citing Iran's "cohesion, strength, and unity," and his assertion of victory and power in the ongoing war.