Iran and Oman defining a temporary route for now, Araghchi says

Iran and Oman are currently defining a temporary maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. The minister clarified that talks with Oman and the potential reopening of the Strait are two distinct issues. Araghchi's comments, as reported by Shahrara News, emphasized that the ongoing negotiations with Oman are technical in nature, focusing on designating maritime routes for ship passage.

The previous routes have become inoperative, necessitating the development of a new temporary route. This temporary solution may eventually evolve into a permanent one. Iran's role in the Strait's security and future management, as outlined in Clause 5 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed with the United States, includes tasks like mine clearance.

The negotiations between Iran and Oman are expected to reach a conclusion soon, but Araghchi stressed the importance of separating the discussions on route design from the broader issue of Strait reopening. The final decision on reopening will depend on Iran fulfilling certain conditions that the United States must adhere to.