Oman announced on Tuesday the opening of a temporary maritime corridor for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, citing its responsibility towards one of the world’s most important shipping routes and its commitment to freedom of navigation.
The measure was introduced in coordination with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and in line with outcomes of recent US-Iran efforts related to navigation and regional stability, according to a report by the Oman News Agency.
“Based on the Sultanate of Oman’s responsibility toward the Strait of Hormuz and its importance to the global economy, and in accordance with its firm commitment to international law and the law of the sea, ensuring freedom of navigation in the strait without imposing transit fees, Oman has worked in coordination with the International Maritime Organization to provide the option of using a temporary maritime corridor for all vessels,” the report said.
The corridor will be available according to coordinates announced by the IMO and the relevant Omani authorities, with vessels wishing to use the route required to coordinate with the international maritime body.
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The report comes as Oman and Iran continue consultations on future navigation arrangements in the strategic waterway.
Earlier on Tuesday, Muscat and Tehran announced the formation of “a joint working group” tasked with negotiating the future management of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, maritime services to be provided there and related costs, in coordination with other Gulf littoral states and in accordance with international law and the sovereign rights of states bordering the waterway.
