Tehran: Iran and Oman are on the verge of finalizing an agreement for a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. While discussions are progressing, Araghchi cautioned that reopening this strategic waterway involves several other conditions.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Araghchi made these remarks while speaking to reporters during a news conference by President Masoud Pezeshkian. He revealed that negotiations with Oman are focused on the legal framework and management of the Strait, including designating a shipping route. Military and naval discussions between the two countries have been based on existing maps, and a new route will be set once these talks conclude.

Araghchi pointed out that the previously used traffic separation scheme (TSS) is no longer acceptable to Iran. He emphasized that developing a new mechanism involves complex technical and legal considerations. For the time being, discussions are centered on establishing a temporary route, which could eventually lead to a permanent solution.

He also accused the United States of violating the Islamabad memorandum of understanding. Despite Iran's efforts to restore shipping traffic to 60% of normal levels, with expectations of a full recovery within a month, the U.S. attempted to establish new routes through the Strait, undermining Iran's management of the waterway.

In a separate context, Araghchi addressed the issue of Iran's share of the Caspian Sea, stating that the convention on its legal status did not resolve disputes over baselines and seabed division. These matters remain subject to further bilateral and trilateral negotiations. The convention, submitted to Iran's parliament in 2018 and 2019, still awaits parliamentary ratification. Araghchi highlighted that the convention prohibits the presence of foreign military forces in the Caspian Sea.