Araghchi: Agreement with Oman Does Not Mean Reopening Hormuz; US Return to Commitments is the Key Condition

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) – Tehran: In an interview with Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, Abbas Araghchi stated that the agenda for tomorrow's meeting in Oman focuses on a new maritime route in the Strait of Hormuz. According to him, details of the agreement with Oman and maps related to the new route will be shared with the participating countries. He emphasized that this agreement does not imply the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

 

The Iranian Foreign Minister also identified the US return to its commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum as Tehran's primary condition for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Emphasizing that the responsibility for ensuring regional security and stability rests solely with the countries of the region, Araghchi expressed hope that these talks would pave the way for future consultations on issues of mutual interest to regional states.

 

These remarks come as the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world's most critical energy corridors—has experienced serious disruptions to oil tanker traffic in recent weeks. Reduced shipping activity and ongoing tensions between Iran and the US have pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel and heightened concerns regarding the security of the global energy supply chain.

 

Tomorrow's meeting in Oman could serve as a step toward de-escalation, yet Iranian officials insist that any resolution regarding the situation in Hormuz depends on a change in Washington's behavior. Tehran has also emphasized the role of regional countries in ensuring the security of vital waterways and considers any foreign security arrangements ineffective.