Iran, Oman Discuss Temporary Shipping Corridor Through Strait of Hormuz

Iran and Oman have discussed creating a temporary navigational corridor through the Strait of Hormuz as they seek to restore safe passage through the strategically important waterway, Yomma Ehab and Jana Choukeir reported for Reuters.

Iran and Oman are discussing a temporary navigational corridor and mine-clearing project in the Strait of Hormuz. [Photo: U.S. Central Command Facebook]

Iran and Oman have held talks for weeks over how to manage traffic through the strait, which is a major route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Shipping through the waterway has been severely disrupted since the conflict began in February, with Iran and the United States pursuing competing approaches to control and security.

The two countries said they discussed “a joint temporary navigational corridor” and agreed to work on clearing mines from the waterway.

Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said he was hopeful that a temporary corridor and practical arrangements for safe navigation could be announced soon. 

The talks do not amount to a finalized agreement. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that negotiations were continuing and that the proposed arrangement had not yet been completed.