Iran and Oman discuss future Hormuz transit framework
Countries reaffirm authority over territorial waters while reviewing navigation services and possible charges
MUSCAT, Oman (MNTV) – Iran and Oman have agreed to continue discussions on the future management of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, while reaffirming their sovereign authority over the waters under their jurisdiction.
The announcement followed high-level meetings in Muscat involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Iranian parliamentary speaker and chief negotiator Bagher Ghalibaf, Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, and Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi.
In a joint statement, the two countries said they would establish a working group to examine future arrangements for navigation through the strategic waterway, including maritime services, administrative mechanisms and any associated costs in line with international standards.
The discussions come after Iran signaled plans to introduce maritime service charges for vessels using the strait. Iranian officials have indicated that any new fee structure would follow a 60-day period of unrestricted passage outlined in a memorandum of understanding reached with the United States.
Oman’s foreign minister said both countries remained committed to ensuring safe and toll-free passage through the waterway while negotiations continue.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, carrying a significant share of global oil and gas shipments.
Speaking separately, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Islamabad supports maintaining unrestricted navigation through the strait without permits, tolls or additional charges.
Dar said lower energy prices and the resumption of maritime traffic following recent diplomatic progress demonstrated the benefits of regional stability. He added that Pakistan and China had previously agreed that commercial shipping through the waterway should remain free and uninterrupted.
The Pakistani foreign minister also expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, describing recent talks in Switzerland as a second phase of a broader diplomatic process addressing nuclear issues, sanctions, frozen assets and regional security concerns.
Dar said the initial phase of the agreement had already been completed and voiced confidence that the parties involved were committed to reaching a final settlement. He noted that some elements of the process are expected to be concluded within 30 days, while the broader framework is scheduled for completion within 60 days, subject to mutual extension.
He also said Iran had shown flexibility during previous discussions regarding its uranium stockpile and warned that regional tensions, particularly related to Lebanon, had at times complicated diplomatic efforts and nearly disrupted negotiations.
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