Iran Discusses Hormuz Stability as Gulf Push Grows to Limit Iran’s Control

TEHRAN, Jul 28: Iran held talks with Oman and Saudi Arabia over security concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, as a proposed Omani initiative could introduce a joint regional mechanism to manage the strategic waterway and limit Tehran’s unilateral influence, Reuters reported Tuesday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he held separate phone conversations on Monday evening with Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan.

According to Araghchi, the discussions focused on bilateral relations, regional developments and the need for greater diplomatic coordination to restore stability in the region. He said the officials also addressed insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes.

Separately, Reuters reported that Oman had presented Iran with a proposal to establish a joint regional framework for managing the Strait of Hormuz and collecting voluntary fees from users of the waterway.

A source from a Persian Gulf country told Reuters that the proposal has received regional support and would prevent Iran from having sole control over the strategic passage.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is a critical maritime chokepoint through which a significant portion of global oil shipments pass. Any disruption to traffic through the waterway has raised concerns over energy markets and regional security.

The proposed mechanism comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, with regional states seeking diplomatic arrangements to reduce risks of confrontation and ensure the continued flow of commercial shipping.