Iran rules out Hormuz Strait agreement at upcoming Oman talks

A senior Iranian official said the meeting scheduled for next Monday in Oman between Iran and Gulf states will provide an opportunity to discuss several issues, including the Strait of Hormuz, but ruled out the possibility of signing an agreement on the contested waterway. The comments were reported by Reuters.

The Iranian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, added that the meeting would also serve as a platform to address other regional matters in addition to the Hormuz Strait. He noted that Tehran is still seeking an agreement that would allow it to impose fees on ships passing through the strait, a proposal opposed by Oman.

Iran has been negotiating for months with Oman, which controls the opposite shore of the strait, over an agreement to regulate maritime traffic. Oman has long stated that its negotiations enjoy the backing of other Arab Gulf states.

On Thursday, Tehran announced its intention to participate in the meeting with Gulf states in Oman on Monday. Oman has not officially confirmed the meeting, and other Gulf states have not commented. Bahrain said on Friday it would not attend any meetings with Iran before the restoration of diplomatic relations.