JUST IN: Iran and Oman Draft Joint Protocol for Safe Navigation and Traffic Monitoring in the Strait of Hormuz
JUST IN: Iran and Oman are finalizing a joint protocol to coordinate and monitor vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to ensure safe passage and provide structured oversight in the strategic waterway amid ongoing disruptions from Operation Epic Fury, according to Iranian officials.
By Reflecto News Staff
April 2, 2026
TEHRAN / MUSCAT – Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi announced that Tehran has nearly completed an internal draft protocol for a new navigation regime in the Strait of Hormuz and will soon begin negotiations with Oman to create a joint framework. The initiative seeks to establish coordinated supervision by the two coastal states, requiring vessels to obtain necessary permits and clearances in advance for safe and efficient transit.
Gharibabadi emphasized that the protocol is intended “to facilitate and ensure safe passage and provide better services to ships,” rather than impose new restrictions. He stated that vessel traffic should occur under the joint supervision and coordination of Iran and Oman, even in peacetime, reflecting their responsibilities as coastal states.
Details of the Draft Protocol
According to statements reported by Iranian state media (IRNA and Tasnim) and relayed internationally:
- Vessels would need to coordinate in advance with Iranian and Omani authorities and secure the required permits and licenses.
- The framework aims to monitor transit, enhance security, and improve services for compliant ships.
- Once the internal Iranian draft is finalized, formal negotiations with Oman will begin to produce a bilateral agreement.
- Some reports suggest the UAE has expressed willingness to participate in broader security efforts for the strait.
This development builds on Iran’s existing selective “toll booth” system, under which approved vessels (often from friendly or neutral countries) submit details, undergo vetting, pay fees (typically in yuan or stablecoins), and receive escorts. The new protocol could formalize and expand such coordination with Oman, whose territorial waters also border key sections of the strait.
Context Amid Ongoing Conflict
The announcement arrives as:
- President Donald Trump vowed to intensify strikes on Iran “extremely hard” over the next 2–3 weeks, claiming core objectives of Operation Epic Fury are nearing completion.
- Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped dramatically (reportedly by up to 95% in some periods), driving Brent crude prices up sharply (including a 6% surge today).
- Gulf states have maximized bypass pipelines, such as Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline and the UAE’s Habshan–Fujairah route, to mitigate losses.
- The UK is hosting a virtual meeting of around 35 countries this week to discuss diplomatic and political measures for reopening the strait.
Iran maintains that the strait is not closed and that non-hostile vessels complying with safety rules can pass, while accusing external aggression of creating the current risks.
Strategic Significance
A joint Iran-Oman protocol could:
- Provide a structured mechanism for safe navigation once major hostilities subside.
- Strengthen bilateral ties between Tehran and Muscat, a traditional mediator in the region.
- Offer an alternative or parallel framework to international efforts led by the UK and others.
- Potentially institutionalize elements of Iran’s current selective transit practices under a bilateral umbrella.
Oman, which shares control over parts of the strait and maintains balanced relations with both Iran and Western/Gulf states, is seen as a pragmatic partner for such coordination.
Reactions and Implications
Iranian Side: Officials frame the move as responsible governance and a commitment to maritime safety, consistent with Iran’s long-standing position on freedom of navigation under its oversight.
International Community: The protocol may complicate or complement the UK-led diplomatic initiative. Some analysts view it as an attempt by Iran to legitimize greater control over the waterway, while others see potential for de-escalation through structured rules.
Oil Markets and Shipping: Any formalized regime that improves predictability could help stabilize expectations, though persistent military risks and the need for permits may keep insurance costs and rerouting high in the short term.
U.S. and Allies: Washington has emphasized that the strait should open naturally once objectives are met, while continuing military pressure. The development adds another layer to ongoing debates over diplomatic versus military solutions.
Looking Ahead
Whether the Iran-Oman protocol evolves into a functioning joint management system — and how it interacts with broader international efforts — will be closely watched. The coming days may bring updates on negotiations with Oman, outcomes from the UK-hosted meeting, and any impact on shipping flows or oil prices.
As Operation Epic Fury continues with promised intensification, this diplomatic step by two key coastal states represents a notable attempt to address the maritime crisis even as fighting persists.
Reflecto News will monitor progress on the protocol, reactions from Oman and other Gulf states, and any links to ceasefire or de-escalation talks.
Related Coverage on Reflecto News:
- President Trump Vows to Hit Iran “Extremely Hard” Over Next 2–3 Weeks
- Brent Crude Oil Prices Surge 6% Amid Escalating Rhetoric
- UK Hosts Meeting of 35 Countries on Reopening Strait of Hormuz
- Gulf States Accelerate Pipeline Routes to Bypass Hormuz
- Iran’s “Toll Booth” Regime in the Strait of Hormuz
- Russia Claims US Unable to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
This report is based on statements by Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, coverage from IRNA, Tasnim, Bloomberg, CNBC, and other international outlets.