Iran: Regional Meeting in Oman with Iraq and Gulf States to Discuss Strait of Hormuz Security

Iran's Foreign Ministry announced on Friday a regional meeting scheduled for next Monday in Oman, with the participation of Iraq and Gulf littoral states, to discuss navigation security in the Strait of Hormuz and bolster regional cooperation. Ministry spokesperson, Ismail Baqaei, stated that Iran is firmly committed to fostering trust and cooperation among regional nations, aiming to establish peace and stability free from destructive and divisive external interventions. Baqaei emphasized the significance of this initiative, designed to convene foreign ministers of countries bordering the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. He expressed hope that the event would pave the way for enhanced mutual understanding and contribute to strengthening shared regional security. Discussions at the meeting, set to take place in Muscat, will focus on the outcomes of ongoing negotiations between Iran and Oman regarding the establishment of safe corridors for commercial navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, in addition to other regional issues. The spokesperson reiterated Iran's commitment to ensuring navigation security in the Strait, referencing previous understandings reached with Oman concerning temporary navigation passages. However, Baqaei cautioned that as long as hostile actions and illegal interventions by the United States persist, including maritime blockade and economic warfare, the security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz cannot be guaranteed.