Iran, Oman reach new Hormuz security mechanisms

Iran and Oman are collaborating to establish new security mechanisms aimed at ensuring the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, according to Iran's Foreign Ministry. However, Iran maintains that the US violations of a previous Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) prevent the strategic waterway from being declared safe.

Both sides are reportedly working together smoothly, with the two countries having reached an understanding on a traffic map through the Strait. The proposed mechanisms will not only monitor shipping but also address environmental issues, maritime services, and combat crime.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, clarified that discussions on a joint statement are still ongoing, but questions concerning transit fees and their distribution between Iran and Oman are not currently under discussion. He also noted that while the two sides are addressing the practical arrangements for shipping, compensation for maritime services is typically expected when providing such services.

Baghaei emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is not closed due to a dispute between Iran and Oman, but as a consequence of US and Israeli military aggression against Iran, along with the use of bases along the southern Persian Gulf coast. The negotiations with Oman are therefore focused on establishing a safe shipping route, while the broader issue of fully opening the Strait remains tied to the ongoing military situation.

Baghaei stressed that Tehran considers itself to be in a state of war and that the Strait of Hormuz will not be considered safe as long as the US naval blockade and other violations continue. He reiterated that the bilateral understanding with Oman, even if finalized, would not alone be sufficient to establish the conditions for a complete reopening of the Strait.