Iran and Oman are planning a new shipping route through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to a spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ismael Bagei. The proposed corridor would allow vessels to navigate the narrow waterway under a shared temporary arrangement while negotiations over long-term control continue. This development comes amid ongoing tensions with the United States, which has been a key player in the region's maritime disputes. The planned route involves a circular path rather than separate lanes, as was previously used. Under this model, tankers or cargo ships would enter the Strait of Hormuz via Iranian territorial waters, then proceed to ports in Iran or Gulf Arab states before returning through Omani waters. This setup aims to streamline traffic and reduce congestion, though it raises concerns over sovereignty and access rights. The Strait of Hormuz, at its narrowest point, measures just 39 kilometers wide, making it one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for global energy trade. The dispute over navigational rights in the area has become a major stumbling block in the military conflict between the United States and Iran. Both nations claim jurisdiction over waters within 12 nautical miles, approximately 22.2 kilometers, of their coasts, leading to overlapping territorial claims. As a result, there are no international waters in this zone, meaning all vessels must operate under the authority of either Iran or Oman. This lack of neutral space has heightened fears of potential disruptions to oil, gas, and fertilizer exports, which are vital to global markets. Under the proposed arrangement, Iran could potentially regulate which vessels and countries are allowed to transit the strait. This level of control could lead to restrictions on commercial traffic, particularly affecting foreign-flagged ships. In contrast, during the period prior to the escalation of hostilities, the strait remained open to all vessels without such limitations. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) guarantees the right of innocent passage for commercial ships and prohibits the blockade of merchant vessels. However, Iran does not accept this legal stance, further complicating diplomatic efforts. In June, the United States and Iran reached a preliminary agreement aimed at resolving some of these issues. According to the terms of the deal, Tehran is expected to work with coastal states, including Oman, to establish a framework for future management of the strait. While this agreement represents progress, it remains subject to further negotiation and implementation. The involvement of Oman adds another layer of complexity, as the country seeks to balance its economic interests with regional security concerns. The situation underscores the broader geopolitical stakes surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. With the volume of oil transported through the strait accounting for nearly 20% of the world’s total supply, any disruption carries significant implications for global energy prices and market stability. The proposed route, while intended to ease logistical challenges, also reflects the growing influence of regional actors in shaping maritime policy. As discussions continue, the outcome will likely have far-reaching consequences for both regional and international trade.
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