Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani traveled to Muscat on Wednesday for discussions with Omani officials regarding the initiation of negotiations on the Strait of Hormuz that would involve Iran, Iraq, and Gulf Arab states, according to a diplomat briefed on the talks who spoke to Reuters.
Separate from US-Iran Talks
The diplomat emphasized that these discussions are distinct from ongoing US-Iran peace talks and de-mining arrangements. Gulf states are expected to push for the elimination of transit fees, while Iran may propose fees related to environmental, navigation, and security concerns.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass, has experienced significant disruption since the United States and Israel launched military action against Iran on February 28. This conflict has curbed commercial shipping and rattled global energy markets.
Implementation of Memorandum of Understanding
The move appears to implement a provision of a memorandum of understanding signed last week, which calls for Iran to hold talks with Oman, other Gulf states, and Iraq on the future management of navigation and maritime services in the strait. The diplomat added that Pakistan has been proposed as the mediator for these talks.
Separately, there are plans for regional reconciliation talks to be held in Riyadh between Iran, Gulf Arab states, and possibly other regional countries, the diplomat said.
Oman Announces Temporary Routes
Earlier on Wednesday, Oman announced two temporary routes north and south of the existing shipping lane in the strait to facilitate the safe passage of vessels departing the region. This initiative is being coordinated with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Under a phased plan developed by the IMO in coordination with Omani authorities, vessels will be grouped and contacted individually with instructions on when they may depart and which route they should follow.
Oman stated that shipowners and masters remain responsible for conducting independent risk assessments before voyages. Vessels were instructed to keep their Automatic Identification System activated during transit and to report any navigational hazards to the Oman Maritime Security Centre.
No Tolls Imposed
Oman's statement clarified that no tolls would be imposed on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, in line with the outcome of recent talks between the United States and Iran. Iran and Oman began discussions on the future administration of navigation and maritime services in the waterway on Tuesday.
