Iran has proposed allowing ships to sail freely through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz without risk of attack as part of ongoing negotiations with the United States, according to a source briefed on Tehran's position. The offer, reported on April 15, could form part of a broader deal to prevent renewed conflict in the region. Under the proposal, vessels would be permitted to use the Omani waters of the narrow strait without hindrance from Iranian forces, while Iran would continue to control its own side of the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical chokepoints for global energy supplies, with roughly a fifth of the world's oil and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas passing through it daily. A US-led naval blockade and Iranian restrictions on maritime traffic in recent weeks have trapped hundreds of ships and around 20,000 seafarers, causing the largest disruption to oil flows in recent memory and contributing to earlier spikes in crude prices. The latest Iranian proposal signals a potential softening in Tehran's stance amid diplomatic efforts to extend a fragile ceasefire.

This development comes as market participants continue to monitor hopes for a ceasefire extension between the US and Iran. Brent crude has held below $95 per barrel, reflecting cautious optimism that diplomatic progress could ease supply concerns and reopen key routes. Any agreement allowing safe passage via Omani waters would help alleviate immediate pressures on shipping lanes without requiring full Iranian concessions on its territorial side, potentially enabling trapped vessels to exit the Gulf region safely.

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A Western security source indicated that the idea of unhindered passage through Omani waters had been under discussion, though it remained unclear whether Washington had responded formally. Oman, which shares the southern side of the strait, has historically maintained a neutral stance in regional tensions and adheres to international maritime conventions. The proposal stops short of fully reopening the strait but could provide a practical interim solution for commercial traffic while broader talks continue.

Analysts caution that the offer is conditional on clinching a deal to avert further escalation, and several uncertainties persist, including the management of mines, coordination protocols, and responses from other stakeholders. The situation underscores the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy security and the delicate balance required in US-Iran negotiations. Successful implementation could help stabilize oil markets and reduce risks to international shipping.

For now, the proposal adds to signs of diplomatic momentum following the recent ceasefire announcement. Investors and shipping companies will watch closely for any confirmation or response from the US side, as renewed safe passage could mark a significant step toward normalizing maritime operations in the Gulf.

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