Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani traveled to Muscat on Wednesday for discussions with Oman about launching negotiations involving Iran, Iraq, and Gulf Arab states concerning the Strait of Hormuz, according to a diplomat briefed on the talks who spoke to Reuters.
Separate from US-Iran Peace Talks
The discussions are distinct from ongoing US-Iran peace talks and de-mining arrangements. Gulf states are expected to advocate for no transit fees, while Iran may propose environmental, navigation, and security fees, the diplomat said.
Strategic Waterway Disrupted
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, has faced severe disruption since the United States and Israel launched a war against Iran on February 28. The conflict has curbed commercial shipping and rattled global energy markets.
Memorandum of Understanding Implementation
The initiative appears to implement a provision of the memorandum of understanding signed last week, which calls for Iran to hold talks with Oman, other Gulf states, and Iraq on the future management of navigation and maritime services in the strait.
Pakistan as Proposed Mediator
The diplomat added that Pakistan has been proposed as the mediator for these talks. Separately, there are plans for regional reconciliation talks to be held in Riyadh between Iran, Gulf Arab states, and possibly other regional countries.
