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Iranian and Omani officials met to discuss shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. After the US and Israel attacked Iran, Tehran shut down the vital waterway to most tankers.
A statement from the Omani Foreign Minister following the talks said both sides put forward proposals, but did not indicate that an agreement was reached to allow more traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
“Oman and the Islamic Republic of Iran held a meeting at the deputy ministers’ level in the foreign ministries of the two countries, with the attendance of specialists from both sides, during which the possible options were discussed regarding ensuring the smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” the statement published by Omani state media explained. “The experts from both sides put forward a number of visions and proposals regarding it.”
Last week, Tehran said it spoke with Muscat about post-conflict protocols for the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian Parliament is considering legislation that would impose a toll on all traffic through the strait.
Iran has allowed a small number of ships to transit the key checkpoint since the start of the conflict. Some Asian nations have negotiated deals with Iran to ensure their ships are able to safely exit the Persian Gulf.
On Sunday, President Donald Trump threatened that if Tehran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday, the US would destroy Iranian power plants. “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the Fuckin’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah,” the President posted on his Truth Social Account.
Over the past two weeks, Trump has threatened to attack Iranian power plants and bridges if Tehran did not comply with US demands. When Iranian officials have refused to negotiate on Trump’s terms, he has extended the deadline for Tehran to capitulate.
The threat from Trump is also baffling because he has repeatedly stated that the US does not care if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened. The President has demanded that other countries that rely on Middle East oil reopen the crucial waterway.
Iran says it is currently refusing to negotiate with the US, and it will respond to escalation by targeting civilian infrastructure across the region.
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