The Sultanate of Oman and the Iran have initiated discussions to ensure the smooth flow of maritime transit through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, as regional tensions continue into their second month.
According to a statement from Oman’s Foreign Ministry, the two sides held a high-level meeting on April 4 involving deputy foreign ministers and technical experts. The discussions focused on identifying practical options to maintain uninterrupted shipping through the narrow waterway, which carries a significant share of global energy supplies.
Officials said both sides exchanged proposals aimed at stabilising maritime movement despite ongoing disruptions. These proposals will undergo further review as part of continued bilateral engagement.
The talks come as Iran advances plans for a new navigation framework. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi recently stated that Tehran is in the final stages of drafting a protocol to regulate shipping in the Strait. He indicated that Iran intends to work with Oman to develop a joint mechanism governing transit through the corridor.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council is set to vote next week on a draft resolution introduced by Bahrain. The proposal seeks to authorise member states to use “all defensive means necessary” to ensure safe passage through the Strait.
The move reflects growing international concern over maritime security in West Asia, where the near-blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global energy trade. However, the draft has been revised multiple times after opposition from Russia and China to language explicitly endorsing the use of force.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, and any prolonged disruption is likely to have far-reaching implications for global oil and gas markets.
