Oman and Iran Reaffirm Commitment to Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman and the Islamic Republic of Iran have issued a joint statement following high-level talks in Muscat, underscoring their mutual resolve to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The discussions took place during the visit of Dr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, and Dr. Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister. According to Oman News Agency, the Iranian delegation was received by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and engaged in talks with Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. Oman expressed its support for the "Islamabad" Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the significance of ongoing dialogue to facilitate its implementation. Both nations, as coastal states adjoining the Strait of Hormuz, reiterated their commitment to maintaining safe passage in accordance with international law. They emphasized their sovereign rights over territorial waters and agreed to continue discussion s on navigation management in the Strait through a joint working group from their Foreign Ministries. This initiative aims to establish agreements on future navigation management, services, and associated costs. The joint statement highlighted the importance of engaging with regional littoral states and other stakeholders to ensure arrangements respect the sovereignty of Oman and Iran. Both countries affirmed their dedication to preserving the Strait of Hormuz as a secure maritime route, prioritizing maritime safety, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.