Iran says Hormuz Strait remains closed despite Oman agreement

Tehran clarified on Monday that the recent agreement with Oman to coordinate vessel routes through the Strait of Hormuz should not be interpreted as a sign that the waterway is fully open for unrestricted navigation. Iranian officials emphasized that the arrangement, which outlines specific pathways for commercial ships to follow, is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing incidents amid ongoing regional tensions and does not constitute a formal reopening of the strait.

The statement comes after weeks of speculation following heightened diplomatic activity between Iran and its Gulf neighbors. Oman, which shares a coastline on the strait’s southern side, has been working with Tehran to establish a controlled traffic system that would allow limited passage while security concerns are addressed. Iranian authorities stressed that the agreement is provisional and subject to change, underscoring that the status of the Hormuz corridor remains uncertain pending further developments in the broader geopolitical landscape.