Iran–Oman Agreement Claims to Reshape Control of the Strait of Hormuz
Muscat: Iran and Oman are negotiating a far-reaching agreement that would redefine the management of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints through which around one-fifth of global oil shipments pass.
The proposed agreement would give Iran an effective 75 percent operational role in managing traffic through the Strait. The arrangement reportedly requires all vessels entering the Persian Gulf to pass under Iranian supervision, while outbound traffic would continue to be jointly managed with Oman. Supporters of the proposal argue that this would significantly expand Iran’s influence compared to the existing framework.
The reported agreement also states that Iran would impose a 7 percent maritime service fee on commercial vessels transiting the Strait after a 60-day grace period. Under the claimed revenue-sharing mechanism, 75 percent of the collected fees would go to Iran, while Oman would receive the remaining 25 percent, with the option of waiving its own share if it chooses. Proponents claim the fees could generate tens of billions of dollars annually for Iran.
The agreement would formally recognize Iran’s authority over the Strait through Oman’s endorsement, while excluding the United States from any future management mechanism. Supporters describe this as a major geopolitical setback for Washington, arguing that previous U.S. efforts sought to maintain a role in overseeing maritime traffic through the waterway.
The reports further allege that, under the proposed framework, Iran would have the authority to deny entry into the Persian Gulf to vessels belonging to Israel or countries considered hostile to Tehran or subjecting Iran to sanctions. If implemented, such a provision could have significant implications for regional security, international shipping, and global energy markets.
The proposed arrangement is also presented by its supporters as a major legal victory for Iran. Although Iran is not a party to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the reports claim Tehran has established a separate legal framework governing the Strait. They also reference an 18 June memorandum, asserting that it, together with the proposed Iran–Oman agreement, would recognize Iran as the principal authority responsible for managing the Strait of Hormuz.
Supporters describe the reported agreement as a historic strategic achievement that could reshape the regional balance of power and strengthen Iran’s position as a gatekeeper of global energy supplies and international trade routes.
Maritime experts note that any change to navigation rights in the Strait of Hormuz would likely face complex legal, diplomatic, and geopolitical scrutiny before taking effect.
