Oman Vows to Keep Guarding Strait of Hormuz Shipping Lanes

Oman has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, telling the United Nations General Assembly that it will keep working to secure passage through the strategic waterway as regional conflict continues to disrupt shipping and energy flows.

Addressing the assembly, Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi said the Sultanate would pursue its efforts in line with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. He called on all parties to cooperate with Muscat in ensuring that transit through the strait is respected and taken into account for the benefit of every user.

Oman occupies the southern shore of the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which a substantial share of the world's seaborne energy supplies passes. The country has taken on a mediating role in attempts to restore safe navigation, and last month held talks with Tehran on a phased framework that included a temporary navigation corridor and plans to clear mines from the strait.

In his remarks, al-Busaidi also voiced solidarity with neighbouring countries, including members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, backing what he described as their legitimate measures to safeguard security, protect sovereignty and ensure the safety of their territories amid heightened regional tensions.

The pledge underscores the stakes for global shipping and energy markets, which have been buffeted by disruptions in the waterway, and highlights Oman's position as a diplomatic bridge between regional capitals.