Iran Says Hormuz Strait Talks with Oman Constructive

Iran said on Monday that negotiations with Oman regarding shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz were proceeding smoothly and constructively.

“An understanding has been reached on the navigational chart, and consultations are still ongoing to resolve a number of technical points in the joint statement,” said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei during a weekly press conference, as quoted by the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

He said a number of mechanisms would be established to ensure the safety of maritime traffic, protect the environment, and address “maritime crime.”

“It was also emphasised that relevant fees and tariffs will be imposed on ships,” he added.

Baqaei said the main objective of the ongoing talks between Tehran and Muscat is to reach a sustainable understanding to guarantee full security in the strait.

He stressed that the discussions with Oman are merely a bilateral process to determine safe routes for international shipping and are unrelated to political differences.

However, Baqaei also asserted that the Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened until the United States meets Iran’s demands, including ending the naval blockade of Iranian ports.

The statement came as negotiations over the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remain deadlocked.

Iran and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding in June through the mediation of Pakistan and Qatar, ending open hostilities and paving the way for negotiations towards a broader agreement.

The memorandum of understanding provides for the gradual restoration of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. However, its implementation has stalled after both sides accused each other of violating the agreed terms.