Oman postponed a high-level meeting between Iran and Gulf countries about the fate of the Strait of Hormuz. Oman postponed the meeting citing lack of consensus amongst the participant countries.
The talks were scheduled for Monday in Salalah to discuss transit through the strategic waterway, which remains crucial for global oil and gas supplies.
The Oman News Agency reported that authorities postponed the meeting to create conditions for constructive dialogue.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said Muscat remains committed to promoting dialogue that supports regional stability and lasting cooperation.
Diplomatic hesitation delays talks
Iran’s Fars news agency said the postponement followed a request from several regional countries and a joint decision by Tehran and Muscat.
Tehran had earlier said Iraq and Gulf states would participate in the negotiations.
However, no regional government formally confirmed its attendance, while Bahrain openly ruled out participation.
The Strait of Hormuz has remained a major flashpoint since the conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States began on February 28.
Meanwhile, unresolved disagreements over the waterway contributed to the failure of a June framework agreement between Washington and Tehran.
Iran now requires transit permits and seeks to impose service charges on vessels using the strait.
Non-compliant ships have faced attacks, while US forces have periodically targeted positions along Iran’s coastline.
The disruptions have also pushed international crude oil prices above $100 a barrel, increasing concerns about global energy supplies.
