On the 23rd, Oman and Iran issued a joint statement in Muscat, stating that as littoral states of the Strait of Hormuz, both parties reaffirm their commitment, in accordance with applicable international law, to ensuring the safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The statement emphasized that all arrangements pertaining to the Strait of Hormuz must fully respect the sovereignty and sovereign rights enjoyed by both countries as coastal states. Both parties reiterated the importance of safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz as a vital, open waterway for international shipping, and emphasized their ongoing cooperation to promote maritime security, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.
The two parties stated that they will continue to maintain dialogue on the Strait of Hormuz through a joint working group established between their foreign ministries, with the aim of reaching consensus on future navigation management mechanisms, relevant service arrangements, and fee standards for the strait, ensuring that related arrangements comply with international standards. Both sides also agreed to hold consultations with Gulf littoral states and other relevant parties.
The Strait Has Been Opened Free of Charge
On the 23rd, Iran's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Bahreini, stated that the Strait of Hormuz is now completely open to commercial vessels, with no fees charged.
When responding to questions from the United Nations Geneva Press Association regarding Iran-U.S. negotiations, he said the Strait of Hormuz is now open for a period of 60 days, during which no fees will be charged. In addition, Iran and the U.S. have decided to establish a communication mechanism on this matter, to monitor and resolve any issues that may arise. After 60 days, the specifics of future openness will be determined by the outcome of Iran-U.S. negotiations.