DUBAI: Iran and Oman have reached a preliminary understanding on the geographic coordinates of a proposed shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant step toward restoring commercial navigation through one of the world's most strategically important waterways.
Iran's Foreign Ministry said the two countries are preparing a joint statement outlining the agreement, although officials cautioned that the process could still be affected by third-party interference.
Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the understanding on the shipping route does not, by itself, guarantee full security in the strait, noting that broader political and military factors remain at play.
According to officials familiar with the negotiations, the proposed arrangement would establish separate navigation channels for vessels entering and leaving the Persian Gulf, with Iran and Oman coordinating traffic management.
However, several issues, including operational details and other outstanding provisions, are still under discussion before any final agreement is reached.
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The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy chokepoint linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, carrying a significant share of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Any agreement to improve maritime navigation could have major implications for regional security and global energy markets
