Iran and Oman have initiated their first joint committee meeting focused on the Strait of Hormuz, convening in Muscat as an early step toward implementing elements of a recent interim agreement between Tehran and Washington. This development was announced by Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs, who highlighted productive discussions regarding the sovereign rights of Gulf coastal states and the long-term management of this strategically vital waterway.
These talks follow the signing of a 14-point interim memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington in mid-June, aimed at de-escalating recent tensions, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and easing certain sanctions while broader negotiations continue. The agreement specifically mandates dialogue between Iran and Oman to define future maritime administration and services in the strait, in coordination with other littoral states and in accordance with international law.
The joint committee is tasked with addressing shipping protocols, safety measures, and related services, building on the longstanding cooperation between the two neighboring countries that share oversight responsibilities for this narrow chokepoint. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime passage through which a significant portion of the world’s oil trade has historically passed.
In a significant development for regional stability, the strait’s recent closure amid Iran-related conflict caused disruptions in global energy markets, underscoring the importance of coordinated management to ensure safe and uninterrupted navigation. Both Iran and Oman have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation while respecting the rights of coastal states. Further details from the Muscat meeting are expected in a forthcoming joint statement as officials work toward establishing a sustainable governance framework for the strait.
