Iran and Oman Draft Protocol to Secure Safe Navigation in Strait of Hormuz

In an interview with Sputnik, Kazem Gharibabadi said that the Strait of Hormuz had previously remained open with normal maritime traffic, but recent armed attacks and US-Israeli acts of aggression have disrupted safe passage and created significant challenges.

He noted that Iran is currently in a state of war and that it is unrealistic to expect peacetime rules to apply under such conditions. Referring to US-Israeli aggressors and their supporters, he said restrictions and limitations have naturally been imposed as a result of the conflict.

Gharibabadi added that the current situation in the strait is a direct consequence of these aggressive actions. He warned that even after the war, the region could face further acts of aggression, noting that some countries continue to rely on war as a policy tool. In such scenarios, he said, vessels belonging to aggressors and their supporters—whether commercial or military—would not be allowed to transit the strait.

He emphasized that this approach would form part of Iran’s principled policy in future conflict situations. At the same time, he highlighted that in peacetime, Iran and Oman, as the two coastal states, are committed to ensuring safe and secure navigation through coordinated efforts.

Gharibabadi said that under normal conditions, all vessels passing through the strait would be expected to coordinate in advance with Iranian and Omani authorities and obtain the necessary permits to ensure safety and security. He added that environmental considerations, as well as maritime safety, are also key factors in this framework.

He explained that Iran and Oman would assume greater responsibility for guaranteeing safe passage and are currently working on a draft protocol to regulate navigation in the strait during peacetime. According to him, the protocol is intended not as a restriction, but as a mechanism to facilitate safe transit and provide better services to vessels.

Gharibabadi noted that the drafting process is in its final stages and that, once completed internally, Iran will begin formal negotiations with Oman to finalize a joint protocol governing maritime passage through the strategic waterway.