BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 23. Iran and Oman have
reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open
and safe for international navigation, according to a joint
statement issued by the two countries.
"The two sides underline the importance of continuing
cooperation to enhance maritime security, ensure freedom of
navigation, and maintain regional stability," the statement
reads.
Iran and Oman, as the two coastal states bordering the strait,
said they hold sovereign rights over its waters and will guarantee
safe passage in accordance with international law. The joint
statement said the two countries' foreign ministries will establish
a joint committee to continue negotiations on the future management
of navigation through the strait, including services and associated
costs, with the aim of reaching an agreement in line with
international standards. It was also agreed to consult and
negotiate with other coastal states in the region and other
relevant parties.
The statement followed a visit to Oman by an Iranian
parliamentary delegation led by Majlis Speaker Mohammad Bagher
Ghalibaf, who met with Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and Foreign
Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi.
The declaration comes three days after Iran's Islamic
Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on June 20 that the
strait would be closed to shipping, citing a violation of article 1
of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding between Iran and the
United States — specifically, a breach of the Lebanon ceasefire
terms.
