Iran-Oman talks on the Strait of Hormuz continue

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei responding to reporters questions about media reports in the region and the West regarding Iran-Oman negotiations said that talks between Iran and Oman as the two littoral states of the Strait of Hormuz have been underway over the past two months with the aim of establishing a safe navigation corridor for commercial shipping through the strait.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, responding to reporters' questions about media reports in the region and the West regarding Iran-Oman negotiations, said that talks between Iran and Oman, as the two littoral states of the Strait of Hormuz, have been underway over the past two months with the aim of establishing a safe navigation corridor for commercial shipping through the strait.

He said that the technical, legal, security, and environmental aspects of the proposed arrangement have been reviewed by the relevant authorities in Iran.

Baghaei described the negotiations as "professional" and "moving forward," adding that the geographical parameters of the proposed route have been agreed upon by both sides. He noted that, provided no third parties obstruct the process, a joint statement outlining the main agreed principles and considerations is now in the final stage of review and drafting.

Commenting on the potential impact of an Iran-Oman understanding on security and commercial navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei stressed that the closure of the strait resulted from the U.S. and Israeli military aggression against Iran and the broader security consequences for the region.
He emphasized that an Iran-Oman agreement, by itself, cannot be interpreted as meaning that the strait has become safe for transiting vessels, as the factors undermining security in the Strait of Hormuz—particularly the U.S. naval blockade and its other hostile and threatening actions against Iran and its interests—remain in place.

In response to another question regarding the possibility of a visit by Iran's Foreign Minister or Parliament Speaker to Pakistan or Qatar later this week, Baghaei said there are currently no plans for such visits. He added that Pakistan and Qatar continue their efforts to reduce regional tensions, while the Islamic Republic of Iran remains in close contact and consultation with both countries.