Oman proposes dual shipping corridors for Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran tensions
MUSCAT, OMAN: Oman has proposed a new framework to regulate maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, introducing two separately managed shipping corridors in an effort to safeguard one of the world's busiest energy transit routes amid heightened regional tensions.
According to a source familiar with the negotiations, the draft proposal would keep both shipping lanes open while placing them under different operating arrangements. The agreement has not yet been finalized.
Oman proposes two shipping corridors
Under the proposal, the Southern Corridor, which passes through Omani territorial waters, would remain open to unrestricted commercial navigation under the same conditions as before the recent conflict.
The Northern Corridor, which runs through Iranian territorial waters, would also remain operational.
However, ships using that route would be required to obtain prior approval from Iranian authorities. The proposal does not include any transit fees or tolls for vessels.
Iran and Oman discuss maritime security
The proposal emerged as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met his Omani counterpart, Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, in Muscat on Saturday for talks focused on regional security and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
According to Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency, the two ministers reviewed the status of negotiations involving Iran and the United States, as well as the security situation in the Strait of Hormuz following renewed military tensions.
Albusaidi reaffirmed Oman's longstanding support for diplomacy, stressing the importance of preventing further escalation in the region.
He also expressed hope that the memorandum of understanding reached between Washington and Tehran would contribute to greater regional stability and maritime security.
The two sides also discussed mechanisms aimed at ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through the strategically vital waterway, in line with the understanding reached between the United States and Iran.
Iran's Foreign Ministry had earlier confirmed Araghchi's arrival in Oman for the high-level discussions.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports.
The latest proposal comes after renewed clashes between Iran and the United States disrupted commercial shipping and heightened concerns over global energy supplies.
If adopted, Oman's dual-corridor plan could provide a framework for maintaining freedom of navigation while addressing Iran's security concerns in its territorial waters.
However, it remains unclear whether Washington and Tehran will endorse the proposal as broader diplomatic negotiations continue.
