Iran and Oman are advancing plans to establish a joint protocol to ensure safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz in the post-war period, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said.

In an interview with Sputnik, Gharibabadi explained that while the strait had previously seen normal maritime traffic, recent armed attacks and acts of aggression by the US and Israel have disrupted safe navigation and posed significant challenges, The Caspian Post reports.

He stressed that Iran is currently at war, making the application of peacetime maritime rules unrealistic. The deputy minister noted that restrictions on certain vessels are a natural consequence of the conflict and warned that even after the war, acts of aggression could continue. He added that vessels belonging to aggressors and their allies-commercial or military-would not be allowed to transit the strait under such circumstances.

Gharibabadi highlighted that Iran’s principled approach in future conflicts will prioritize security while maintaining coordinated efforts with Oman during peacetime to guarantee safe navigation. Under normal conditions, vessels would need to coordinate in advance with Iranian and Omani authorities and secure the necessary permits, with environmental and maritime safety considerations taken into account.

He further explained that Iran and Oman are assuming greater responsibility for regulating navigation and are finalizing a draft protocol to manage peacetime passage. The protocol aims not to restrict movement but to facilitate safer transit and improved services for vessels. Once the draft is completed internally, Iran will begin formal negotiations with Oman to finalize the joint framework for the strategic waterway.