Iran working with Oman to maintain long-term security in Strait of Hormuz

CAIRO — Iran is working with Oman to create a mechanism aimed at maintaining long-term security in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said on Wednesday.

Speaking to Iranian state television, Baghaei said Tehran was prepared to coordinate with other coastal nations in developing protocols to ensure the safe passage of shipping traffic through the strategic waterway. He did not provide additional details on the proposed arrangements.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, has faced severe disruptions since fighting between Iran, the United States, and Israel escalated in late February.

Iran has largely restricted access to the strait for foreign vessels, allowing mainly Iranian ships to pass, a move that has significantly affected global energy supplies and international shipping operations. In response, the United States imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports last month, further intensifying tensions in the region.

The latest developments have raised concerns among global markets and energy-importing countries over the stability of oil exports and maritime security in the Gulf. -Reporting by Menna Alaa El-Din and Yomna Ehab; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise/Reuters