Iran, Oman Discuss Temporary Hormuz Shipping Route as US Talks Remain on Hold

Iran has confirmed that it is holding discussions with Oman on establishing a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz to allow commercial vessels to resume operations safely, even as it dismissed reports of an imminent return to negotiations with the United States.

Speaking on Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, said the discussions with Oman are focused on creating a temporary maritime corridor that could restore commercial shipping through one of the world's busiest oil transit routes.

Baghaei also rejected claims by former US President Donald Trump that comprehensive talks between Washington and Tehran could resume as early as Monday.

Trump had stated that he suspended plans for what he described as the largest US military strike on any country since World War II after receiving a phone call from Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, who reportedly appealed for diplomacy. Trump added that the decision to halt the strike depended on Iran reaching an agreement quickly.

Meanwhile, Iran continues to push for greater control over maritime activities in the Strait of Hormuz, insisting on full sovereignty over the strategic waterway. Tehran is also proposing new regulations on shipping routes and has suggested introducing service charges for vessels in exchange for maritime support.

As part of the discussions, Iran has proposed the establishment of a joint Iranian-Omani company to provide maritime services for commercial ships.

The proposed arrangement is expected to offer services at lower costs than those currently charged by international insurance providers, with preferential rates for selected countries.

Progress on a mutually acceptable shipping route is considered a key requirement for implementing other provisions contained in the memorandum of understanding and ceasefire agreement signed on June 18.

However, disagreements over the implementation of the ceasefire have contributed to renewed hostilities, with tensions reportedly spreading beyond the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea and Iraq.

Last week, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, reiterated Tehran's position that most vessels entering the Strait of Hormuz should use a northern route close to Iranian waters, while allowing limited access to a southern passage.

Iran also rejected proposals for equal traffic distribution between the two routes and opposed any third country taking responsibility for de-mining the shipping lanes.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global oil exports, making any disruption or policy change in the area a major concern for international trade and energy markets.