Iran says to discuss Hormuz with Gulf states in Oman on Monday

TEHERAN: Iran's foreign ministry announced on Friday that Iran would convene a meeting with Gulf states in Oman on Monday to discuss the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The Gulf states participating in the meeting will include Iraq and other Persian Gulf littoral nations. The purpose of the meeting, as stated by Iran's foreign ministry, is to foster better understanding among the regional countries and enhance shared security.

The ongoing Middle East war, which began on February 28 following US-Israeli strikes that killed Iran's supreme leader, has led to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This blockade, which has been in place for more than six months, continues to contribute to the surge in oil prices, with a barrel of oil surpassing $100 this week.

The ongoing discussions between Oman and Iran regarding the future management of the Strait of Hormuz have been ongoing for several weeks. Currently, Iran requires vessels to obtain permission to pass through the strait and is contemplating the implementation of service fees. Non-compliant ships have been subjected to Iranian strikes, while the United States periodically bombs Iran's coastline to challenge its control over the strategic waterway.