Araghchi meets Omani counterpart in Muscat to discuss ‘Safe Passage Mechanisms’ in Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Omani counterpart Badr al-Busaidi in Muscat on Saturday to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments, with a particular focus on the Strait of Hormuz, according to a post on Araghchi’s official Telegram page. The two officials “exchanged views on appropriate mechanisms for the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz,” in accordance with the US-Iran memorandum of understanding.

The meeting comes as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and restore freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway. Oman has historically served as a mediator between Tehran and Washington, and its role in the current talks is significant. Qatari officials are also reportedly taking part in separate negotiations in Muscat regarding the partial reopening of the strait.

The discussions in Muscat follow a fresh round of strikes and counter-strikes between the US and Iran, which have heightened tensions in the region. The strait, through which approximately 20% of global oil supplies pass, has been a flashpoint in the conflict, with Iran launching missile attacks on commercial shipping and the US conducting strikes to keep the waterway open.

The proposed mechanisms for safe passage are aimed at ensuring the free movement of commercial shipping through the strait, reducing the risk of further incidents and easing concerns about global oil supplies. However, significant hurdles remain, including Iran’s insistence on maintaining control over the strait’s security and the broader tensions between Tehran and Washington.

The meeting between Araghchi and al-Busaidi reflects the ongoing diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the crisis. As the talks continue, the international community will be watching closely for any signs of progress. The reopening of the strait would be a major step toward de-escalation and could pave the way for a return to negotiations between the US and Iran. However, given the complexity of the issues involved, a resolution is far from certain. For now, Oman, Qatar, and Iran continue their discussions, with the hope of finding a path forward that ensures the strait remains open and tensions are reduced.