Oman has announced the opening of a temporary maritime corridor in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure continued freedom of navigation for global shipping. The move comes amid ongoing regional consultations involving Iran and Oman on the future management of one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. The decision is aimed at stabilising maritime traffic and reducing disruption risks in the strategic waterway.
According to the Oman News Agency, the corridor has been established in coordination with the International Maritime Organization and in line with recent US-Iran understandings on navigation and regional stability. Authorities said the initiative reflects Oman’s responsibility toward safeguarding international shipping routes that are vital to the global economy.
The temporary route will be available to all vessels operating in the region, with coordinates to be issued by the relevant maritime authorities. Ships wishing to use the corridor will be required to coordinate with international maritime bodies to ensure safe passage. Officials emphasised that the arrangement does not include transit fees and remains consistent with international maritime law.
In parallel, Oman and Iran have agreed to establish a joint working group to discuss long-term arrangements for navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The group will address maritime services, regulatory mechanisms and related operational costs, in consultation with other Gulf states and in accordance with international legal frameworks governing territorial waters and shipping lanes.
The development comes as part of broader diplomatic efforts linked to the Islamabad Memorandum framework, under which Iran has committed to facilitating safe and uninterrupted commercial shipping for a limited period while longer-term arrangements are negotiated. Observers say the initiative highlights ongoing attempts to reduce tensions and ensure stability in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.