Iran and Oman near agreement on limited central corridor through Strait of Hormuz

Iran announced that negotiations with Oman are in the final stage to create a temporary, narrow shipping lane through the centre of the Strait of Hormuz, replacing the current coastal routes. Under the plan, commercial vessels would travel in a central corridor jointly overseen by Iran and Oman, granting Tehran a significant role in managing traffic through the strategic waterway. The corridor would be toll-free for an initial period of two to four months while the two sides discuss a longer-term framework, including whether Iran could levy transit charges—a point the United States says must not be allowed.

Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized that the new model would shift a substantial portion of the route into Iran’s territorial waters, though the passage would still require de-mining before ships could safely use it. Iran has linked a full reopening of the strait to the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade, easing of energy sanctions, and the release of frozen Iranian assets. The United States maintains that the strait remains an international waterway and any temporary route must be free of approvals, permissions, or fees.