Iran has rejected Oman's proposal to manage shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, insisting that it should also control part of the shipping lane located within Omani territorial waters. The move has raised fresh concerns over the future of one of the world's most important oil transit routes.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran would not accept any arrangement that limits its authority over the strategic waterway, warning that the Strait of Hormuz could remain closed if Iran's conditions are not met.

The latest dispute comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing concerns over global energy security, as nearly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes through the narrow maritime corridor.

Iran dismisses reports of renewed US talks

Speaking to Iranian state television, Gharibabadi also rejected reports suggesting that Iran had recently sought to resume negotiations with the United States.

He said Iran had made no request for talks with Washington during the past 15 days, contradicting speculation that diplomatic contacts had resumed following recent military tensions in the region.

His remarks come after conflicting statements from US and Iranian officials regarding the possibility of renewed dialogue, leaving uncertainty over whether diplomatic efforts are progressing.

Iran says Hormuz must not return to previous status

The deputy foreign minister argued that restoring the Strait of Hormuz to its previous operating conditions would not represent a complete victory for Iran.

He said some countries had proposed creating a southern shipping corridor for vessels passing through the strait, but claimed such a plan would violate the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding governing navigation arrangements in the area.

According to Tehran, any long-term solution must recognise Iran's security concerns and provide it with a greater role in managing maritime traffic.

Oman proposed equal division of shipping route

Gharibabadi revealed that Oman had proposed dividing the main shipping corridor equally between the two neighbouring countries.

Under the proposal, 50% of the route would lie within Iranian territorial waters, while the remaining 50% would pass through Omani waters. Ships would enter through Iranian waters before continuing their journey through Oman's section of the channel.

The proposal was reportedly aimed at restoring confidence in international shipping while reducing tensions between the two countries.

However, Iran believes the arrangement does not go far enough.

Tehran seeks control inside Omani waters

Iran has insisted that it should manage the section of the shipping lane located within its own territorial waters. In addition, Tehran wants operational control over part of the route that falls inside Oman's waters.

According to Gharibabadi, this demand is essential to ensure the security and proper management of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

He warned that if Oman refuses to accept Iran's proposal, the strategic waterway will remain closed.

The statement marks one of Iran's strongest public positions on the future management of the Strait of Hormuz since regional tensions escalated.

Strait of Hormuz remains critical to global trade

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important maritime passages, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

A significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through the narrow channel every day. Any disruption to shipping can quickly affect international energy markets, freight costs and fuel prices.

Because of its importance, developments in the strait are closely monitored by governments, shipping companies and financial markets around the world.

Regional uncertainty continues

Iran's latest demands are expected to complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring normal shipping operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

While Oman has been attempting to mediate and reduce tensions, Tehran's insistence on expanded control highlights the challenges facing any long-term agreement.

Analysts say the coming days will be crucial as regional governments seek to prevent further disruption to international trade while balancing security concerns and diplomatic negotiations.

With no immediate breakthrough in sight, the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain, keeping global energy markets and maritime operators on high alert.