Iran Seeks Control over Hormuz Shipping

Iran wants control over inbound shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and oversight of outbound traffic, with the ability to intervene if necessary, under a temporary plan being discussed with Oman to reopen the strategic waterway.

Under the proposal, outbound vessels would use a route between Iran and Oman, with Oman granting clearance after notifying Tehran.

A senior Iranian source involved in the talks said Tehran was unlikely to change its position. Iran has already softened its initial demand for full control over traffic in both directions.

Last month, Tehran rejected an Omani proposal to divide transit routes equally between the two countries, arguing that it failed to address Iran’s security concerns until long-term regional stability is achieved.

Control of the Strait of Hormuz remains a central obstacle in efforts to end the US-Israeli war with Iran. The waterway, a key route for about one-fifth of global oil supplies, has been largely blocked since the conflict began in late February.

(Reuters, mja)