Oman and Iran discuss easing passage through Strait of Hormuz amid regional conflict

Oman and Iran have held talks on easing maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as the key global shipping route remains effectively closed amid the escalating West Asia conflict. According to Oman News Agency, officials from both countries met at deputy foreign minister level, along with technical specialists, to explore options for restoring safe navigation through the strategic waterway.

“Oman and the Islamic Republic of Iran held a meeting at the deputy ministers’ level in the foreign ministries of the two countries, with the attendance of specialists from both sides, during which the possible options were discussed regarding ensuring the smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” the agency said in a post on X. It added that “experts from both sides put forward a number of visions and proposals” to address the situation.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which about one fifth of global oil shipments normally pass, has been severely disrupted after Iran targeted shipping following US and Israeli strikes that began in late February. The conflict has paralysed Gulf shipping and impacted energy infrastructure across neighbouring countries, contributing to global economic volatility.Iran has also proposed a post-war maritime protocol with Oman to regulate ship movements, while an Iranian parliamentary committee recently voted to impose tolls and ban US and Israeli vessels from the strait.