Iran and Oman Hold Talks on Strait of Hormuz Traffic Plan
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi held discussions regarding maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, focusing on a 60-day traffic plan. According to Tasnim news agency, the leaders explored future administration and maritime services in the strategic waterway.
Araghchi described the call as "productive" and reaffirmed that Iran and Oman would conduct dialogue "to define future administration and maritime services in Strait of Hormuz." He stated on X that the two countries are determined to proceed with discussions involving their neighbors.
US-GCC Ministerial Meeting Emphasizes Free Navigation
This development follows a ministerial meeting between the United States and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Manama, Bahrain. The ministers, co-chaired by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, stressed the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. They noted that free, unconditional, and unrestricted navigation, including transit passage rights under international law, is essential for regional and global security.
The joint statement from the US State Department rejected any tolls, fees, or attempts to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz. The Omani side, in coordination with the International Maritime Organization, announced it was providing a shipping transit corridor to ensure freedom of navigation without imposing transit fees, in line with outcomes reached by the United States and Iran.
IRGC Navy Warns Vessels Against Unauthorized Routes
Responding promptly, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy warned vessels to use only authorized routes through the Strait of Hormuz. As reported by Iranian news agency Press TV, the IRGC Navy stated that "certain authorities" had announced a new maritime transit route without consulting Tehran, calling the proposed route "unacceptable" and a "serious safety risk."
The IRGC Navy asserted that only routes approved by Iran are authorized for passage. "Vessel traffic outside these routes is prohibited and highly dangerous. All ships are strongly advised to avoid any navigation outside the designated corridors," the statement said. It also mandated that vessels maintain communication with Iranian authorities via Channel 16, warning that any violation would result in enforcement measures.
Trump Rejects Any Fees on Shipping in Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump earlier stated that any Iran deal including fees on shipping or maritime activities in the Strait of Hormuz would be unacceptable. Speaking to reporters during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said, "Yeah it would be unacceptable to me because we have numerous straits that if you did that for them you'd have to do it for other people. ... Yeah it would be a game changer."
