Iran Set to Discuss Critical Strait of Hormuz Security with Gulf States in Oman

Iran is expected to meet with Gulf states in Oman on Monday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, the country’s Foreign Ministry announced. In a statement on Friday, the ministry noted that the meeting aims to promote regional understanding and strengthen shared security, with participation anticipated from Iraq and coastal Gulf nations.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei emphasized that Iran remains committed to ensuring navigational security in the strait. Both Iran and Oman have spent several weeks discussing the future management of the strategic waterway. Following United States-Israeli strikes that began in late February, the strait—which carries one-fifth of global oil supplies—has faced disruptions and blockages by Tehran, pushing oil prices above $100 a barrel.

Al Jazeera’s Sinem Koseoglu, reporting from Tehran, explained that Iran is broadening the political scope of the talks by inviting other regional actors such as the GCC countries and Iraq. Last month, Iran and Oman reached agreements regarding a shipping route, mine clearing, and short-term management of the waterway.

Meanwhile, speaking ahead of the BRICS summit in India, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the global situation as having unprecedented complexity. He highlighted that recent US and Israel military aggression has pushed heavy sanctions and pressures to a critical and dangerous stage.

In response to the ongoing closure, the US has maintained a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the blockade and congratulated US President Donald Trump on the economic pressure applied against Iran. Additionally, during a speech marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, Donald Trump reiterated that the Islamist Republic of Iran will never possess a nuclear weapon.