Iran has confirmed its intent to oversee maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, intensifying preparations for upcoming negotiations in Qatar aimed at ending the conflict with the US. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated that Iran wishes to reach an agreement with Oman, which lies south of the critical waterway. Should Oman hesitate, Iran will proceed independently. He warned that no external parties are permitted to interfere in this matter, indicating strong local control over the maritime route.
These developments coincide with renewed peace talks in Doha scheduled for Tuesday, attended by US officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Tensions within the region have escalated since a US-Israeli assault on Iran in February, prompting discussions about shared control over the strait, considered international waters. However, US, European, and Gulf Arab states oppose any fee system for shipping, which Iran has proposed.
While Oman, a US ally with close ties to Iran, is under pressure to resist collaboration with Tehran, it recently stated that returning to the pre-war status quo regarding Hormuz seems impossible. Meanwhile, President Trump remains focused on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and described the upcoming Doha talks as potentially consequential but uncertain. Despite recent attacks in the region, shipping traffic continues, with tankers navigating the strait, reflecting a cautious stability amid rising tensions.
