New Sea Lane Agreement Between Iran and Oman Discussed Amid Regional Talks

Iran and Oman have finalized a new framework for alternative navigation routes through the strategic Hormuz Strait, Iranian officials said on Saturday. The agreement follows prolonged technical and diplomatic negotiations that culminated in a final accord at the end of August. According to the arrangement, vessels entering the Gulf will use a channel that remains completely inside Iran’s territorial waters, while a segment of the exit route will also fall under Iranian jurisdiction. The new system is set to operate under regulations defined by Iran, and once operational, the existing southern corridor will be closed. The development comes as Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi held phone conversations with his Turkish and Iraqi counterparts, focusing on preventing further tension in the region. Both talks highlighted the need for persistent diplomatic dialogue and coordinated security measures. Iran and Oman plan to brief Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members on the outcomes of the sea‑lane agreement during a regional meeting scheduled in Muscat on Monday.