Iran has rejected a proposal to jointly manage shipping traffic in the Hormuz Strait with Oman. Instead, Iran has suggested that it will control all incoming routes and some outgoing routes in the strait.
According to Iran International on July 28, Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, stated in a televised interview that discussions are ongoing with Oman regarding the resumption of shipping traffic in the Hormuz Strait.
Oman had proposed that each country manage one entry and one exit route for vessels. However, Iran declined the offer, citing insufficient measures to address its security concerns.
In response, Iran proposed that all incoming routes be designated as Iranian territorial waters, with some outgoing routes also passing through Iranian waters. This plan aims to allow Iran to monitor all vessels transiting the strait.
Gharibabadi warned that if Oman does not accept Iran's proposal, it will maintain the closure of the Hormuz Strait. He also indicated that Iran would no longer recognize existing routes approved by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Iran asserted that most current routes are located in Omani waters, making it difficult to adequately monitor passing vessels. Additionally, Iran stated it would not permit third countries to conduct mine-clearing operations in the Hormuz Strait, even if requested by Oman.
Reports suggest that Oman has proposed the establishment of a joint management body involving Gulf countries, where vessels would voluntarily contribute to costs necessary for safe navigation and rescue operations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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