Iran has indicated it may allow ships to pass safely through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz as part of proposals shared during negotiations with the United States. This step could come into effect if both sides reach an agreement that prevents further conflict. According to a source familiar with Tehran’s position, the idea is being considered as a potential compromise to ease tensions in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

The ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran has caused severe disruption to global oil and gas supplies. Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz have significantly affected maritime traffic through the narrow passage, which handles nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. As a result, hundreds of tankers and other vessels, along with nearly 20,000 seafarers, have been stranded in the Gulf since the conflict began on February 28.

Although a two-week ceasefire came into effect on April 8, uncertainty continues around the future of shipping in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that the war was close to ending, but control over the Strait of Hormuz remains a major issue in ongoing negotiations. The possibility of restoring safe passage is now central to diplomatic discussions.

The source, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the talks, explained that Iran may permit ships to use the Omani side of the strait without interference. However, it is still unclear whether this would include all vessels, including those linked to Israel. There is also no confirmation on whether Iran would remove any mines that may have been placed in that area.

The proposal depends heavily on whether the United States is willing to meet Iran’s conditions. This factor is seen as crucial to achieving any meaningful progress regarding the Strait. So far, there has been no official response from the White House. Iran’s Foreign Ministry has also not issued any immediate comment on the matter.

A Western security source noted that the idea of allowing ships to pass through Omani waters has been under discussion for some time. However, it remains uncertain whether Washington has formally responded to this proposal. The situation continues to evolve as both sides weigh their options.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway, about 34 kilometres wide, located between Iran and Oman. It serves as a key route connecting the Gulf to the Indian Ocean. It is essential for global energy transport and also carries other important goods such as fertilisers. Any disruption in this area has immediate worldwide economic effects.

In recent weeks, Iran has floated more aggressive measures, including imposing tolls on ships passing through the Strait and asserting greater control over the waterway. These ideas raised concerns in the global shipping industry and were widely seen as violations of established maritime laws. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO), a United Nations agency, opposed the idea of toll charges, stating that it would “set a dangerous precedent”.

Iran’s current proposal is being viewed as a step away from those earlier hardline positions. It may also signal a willingness to return to the long-standing system that has governed shipping in the strait for decades. This system was established in 1968 under a two-way traffic separation scheme approved by the U.N.’s shipping agency. It divides the shipping lanes between Iranian and Omani waters to ensure smooth navigation.

Despite this potential shift, tensions remain high. The United States recently imposed a blockade on oil ships leaving Iranian ports. Shipping activity across the region has remained limited since the conflict began in late February. The situation continues to impact global trade and energy markets.

While Iran’s proposal could offer a path toward easing the crisis, much depends on the outcome of negotiations with Washington. For now, the future of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain, with global attention focused on whether diplomacy can restore stability in this vital corridor.