Iran and Oman have begun discussing a phased system to restore commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after months of severe disruption. Foreign ministers Abbas Araghchi and Badr al-Busaidi met in Tehran to examine how traffic could resume without waiting for a comprehensive political settlement.
Their initial proposal combines a temporary navigation corridor with joint mine-clearance work. The arrangement would use the two countries' positions on opposite sides of the strait to separate ship movements and reduce the immediate danger from explosives, attacks and competing military patrols.
Under the preliminary design, vessels entering the Persian Gulf would travel through Iranian territorial waters. Outbound traffic would use sections controlled by both Iran and Oman, creating distinct flows that officials hope will be easier to monitor and protect.
Technical delegations are expected to negotiate for 30 to 60 days over a permanent route and its administration. Questions still include inspection rules, security guarantees, scheduling, liability and the authority responsible for responding when a vessel or channel is threatened.
The economic stakes extend far beyond the Gulf. Before the war, roughly one fifth of the world's internationally traded oil passed through Hormuz, so the prolonged closure has disturbed energy markets, shipping schedules and the cost of goods that depend on predictable maritime transport.
Acceptance by the United States remains uncertain as its naval blockade and pressure campaign continue. Oman is also trying to preserve its role as mediator, while a Pakistani delegation has discussed both the strait and possible efforts to revive direct negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
A tanker disabled off Oman, whose crew was reported safe and which caused no identified environmental damage, underscored the corridor's vulnerability. Continued exchanges of fire around enforcement operations mean that even a technically workable route will require political restraint and credible coordination to remain open.
