Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has seen a slight increase following talks between Iran and Oman, according to shipping data. The number of vessels transiting the strategic waterway rose to 10 on Wednesday, up from eight the previous day. This follows ongoing negotiations between the two countries to restore controlled shipping after Iran halted traffic in response to US-Israeli attacks in late February.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced that agreements were reached regarding revenue sharing from the strait and the exclusion of military vessels. These talks come amid heightened tensions, with the US threatening to bomb Oman if it cooperates with Iran. Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Organisation reported another tanker attack in Hormuz, attributed to an unknown projectile, further complicating the situation.
The US administration has opposed parts of the evolving agreement, particularly regarding Oman’s potential collaboration with Iran. Despite these challenges, regional powers continue to seek ways to de-escalate the conflict, with Qatar’s prime minister set to meet Iranian officials to discuss regional stability. The situation remains fragile, with the future of Hormuz shipping dependent on diplomatic progress.
