TEHRAN: Iran says it has reached an understanding with Oman on shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei said the two countries will sign the agreement in the coming days.
Rezaei made the remarks as tensions continue to rise around the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz remains a key route for global energy shipments.
Iran plans new restricted zone
Rezaei also said Iran will announce a new restricted zone outside the Strait of Hormuz within the next few days.
According to Iranian state media, the zone will begin at the line of the US naval blockade and extend into parts of the Persian Gulf.
He warned that any vessel entering the new zone would be placed on Iran’s sanctions list.
The announcement could further complicate commercial shipping in the region. Shipping activity through the Strait has already fallen sharply amid the US-Iran confrontation.
Shipping routes agreed with Oman
Rezaei said Iran and Oman have agreed on maps showing the routes for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz.
He said the two sides will sign the related agreement within days.
The proposed arrangement follows earlier discussions between Tehran and Muscat on safe navigation, shipping routes and maritime services. Iranian officials have previously said talks with Oman were moving toward an agreement on navigation through the strait.
Tensions continue around Hormuz
The latest announcement comes after a series of military exchanges involving Iran and the United States.
The US has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian oil shipments. Iran, meanwhile, has repeatedly warned that it can disrupt shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
On Saturday, Iran claimed that its forces targeted three oil tankers and three US-affiliated vessels. The US did not confirm the claimed attacks. Earlier, US forces struck three Iranian oil tankers, according to US officials and military statements.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors. As a result, any new restrictions could affect shipping, insurance costs and global energy markets.
