The Omani government said the initiative was developed in coordination with the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization, or IMO, to facilitate the safe movement of vessels through the waterway following months of disruption linked to regional conflict. According to the IMO, more than 11,000 seafarers remain stranded in the region and are expected to be assisted under a phased evacuation and transit plan.
Oman’s Maritime Security Centre has designated temporary routes north and south of the existing traffic separation scheme, which authorities say is currently unsafe for normal navigation. Ships using the corridor will be guided through a controlled process and must coordinate directly with the IMO and Omani authorities before transit.
Muscat has also reaffirmed its commitment to international law and the Law of the Sea, stressing that vessels will be allowed to use the temporary corridor without transit fees. Omani officials say the measure intends to safeguard freedom of navigation and support global trade.Meanwhile, Oman and Iran have agreed to establish a joint working group to discuss the long-term management of navigation and maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy and shipping corridors.
