Iran, Oman Agree on Hormuz Maritime Route Geographic Points

Iran and Oman have agreed on the geographic points for the new maritime route in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has confirmed that Iran and Oman have reached an agreement in principle on a new maritime route. He stated that preparations are complete for a new temporary maritime route in the Strait of Hormuz, which will mostly pass through Iranian waters. Gharibabadi added that after the implementation of this plan, the existing temporary routes will be closed. He also reiterated that Iran has made the opening of the Strait of Hormuz conditional on the United States fulfilling its commitments, noting that negotiations with Oman lasted three weeks.

Negotiations between Iran and Oman regarding the passage of oil tankers and commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz are reportedly nearing finalization. An agreement has been reached on geographical limits for safe passage, with Iran expected to play a significant role in managing traffic for vessels entering the Persian Gulf. This development is being viewed as a major diplomatic success for Iran.

However, some key issues, including the return of ships, inspections, and potential toll fees, are still under discussion. Oman has been mediating these talks since June 2026, and a joint working group is expected to be established. In late July, Oman proposed a regional management system based on the Strait of Malacca model, advocating for joint management, voluntary fees, and regional cooperation rather than full Iranian control. This initiative is considered part of broader US-Iran discussions aimed at strengthening a ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and ending the US blockade on Iranian ports.

Following reports of progress in these talks, global crude oil prices saw a decline on Thursday. Brent crude fell by 0.5% to $79.08 per barrel, and US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped by 0.7% to $74.69 per barrel. Economists suggest that the market reacted to the positive developments, with prices returning to levels seen after the interim peace deal between the US and Iran in June. Investors are now awaiting a final agreement, which, if successful, could significantly reduce energy prices given that the Strait of Hormuz handles 20% of the world's oil and gas.

An agreement has reportedly been reached regarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab.

Iran and Oman are in the final stages of an agreement for a new shipping arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Qasem Gharibabadi.

Mr. Gharibabadi stated that the new agreement would establish a different model from the arrangement that has been in place for the past 60 years. Under the proposed terms, a significant portion of the shipping route would pass through Iranian waters.

He clarified that the deal does not mean the strait will be completely opened. The agreement is expected to be open for a period of two to four months. The decision to levy transit fees on ships, he added, would depend on Iran's leadership and the response from the United States.

The Deputy Foreign Minister also confirmed that Tehran has received messages from Washington, indicating the US is prepared to re-implement its commitments. However, he did not provide details on the nature of these commitments or how the messages were exchanged.

Following this development, some reports suggest a broader deal between the US and Iran could be reached in the coming days.

Former US President Trump's intervention or phone call with Iran has been highlighted in relation to the Iran-Oman shipping agreement.