Accra: A temporary deal between Iran and Oman will allow ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz free of charge, a US official revealed on Thursday. The agreement is set to ensure that any temporary routes will be without impediments, meaning no approvals or permissions, and no tolls or charges will be imposed on vessels transiting the critical waterway.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway, with no single party controlling the lanes or the ability to transit through them. Despite this, Iran currently maintains control over the critical passage, which serves as a key route for the export of oil and liquefied natural gas from the Gulf states. Tehran is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with Oman regarding shipping through the strait. Iran has proposed a round-trip route, allowing ships to enter the Persian Gulf via a northern route through the strait and exit through a southern route along the coast of Oman.
The United States has not been involved in the negotiations between the two Gulf states. This temporary arrangement is intended as an interim solution while the sea mines laid by Iran are cleared. The ongoing dispute over the strait is a central reason for the recent escalation in the war between the US and Iran. Before the conflict reignited at the end of February, ships were able to pass through the strait without hindrance.