Oman said talks on arrangements for the strategic Strait of Hormuz are proceeding in a "positive and constructive atmosphere," while urging that no actions be taken to undermine progress. Oman and Iran have been negotiating a new mechanism to govern ship passage; Iran says it is close to an agreement with Muscat. The statement also condemned recent attacks on vessels after UKMTO reported a ship was struck off Oman.
Oman Says Talks Over Strait Of Hormuz Are 'Positive And Constructive'
FILE PHOTO - A satellite image captured by Copernicus Sentinel-3A and provided by ESA shows the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Gulf of Oman with the Persian Gulf and separates Iran from the countries of the Arabian Peninsula. (is associated with: «Oman reports 'constructive' talks on Strait of Hormuz») -/ESA/dpa
Oman said on Saturday that negotiations over arrangements for the strategic Strait of Hormuz are advancing in a "positive and constructive atmosphere," the Omani Foreign Ministry said in a brief statement.
The Gulf state, which borders the vital maritime chokepoint alongside Iran, urged that no actions be taken that could undermine "these negotiations and the progress achieved, which takes into account the interests of all parties." The statement did not specify all participants in the talks.
Where Talks Stand
Oman and Iran have been negotiating for weeks on a mechanism to regulate the passage of ships through the strait, which is a key route for global energy shipments. US President Donald Trump has publicly asserted that Washington is involved in the discussions; Iran has denied that claim.
Earlier the same day, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran and Muscat were close to reaching an agreement on a new shipping governance mechanism for the Strait of Hormuz.
Security Concerns
Oman also condemned a series of recent attacks on vessels transiting the strait, calling such incidents "a violation" of international law and territorial waters and a threat to navigation safety. The ministry's statement followed a UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) report that a vessel had been struck by an unknown projectile off Omani waters.
As talks continue, Oman has emphasized the need to avoid escalatory steps that could jeopardize progress. The outcome of negotiations could affect regional security and the stability of international energy markets.
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