Rome: Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the necessity of sustained dialogue regarding the Strait of Hormuz during a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. This discussion comes amid ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Muscat about shipping in the strategically crucial waterway.
According to Anadolu Agency, Tajani shared on US social media platform X that Araghchi briefed him about the negotiations between Iran and Oman concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial traffic. Tajani reiterated the importance of sustained dialogue to promptly reach a political resolution to the crisis, which includes involvement from the United States, and to prevent further escalations. He highlighted the need to ensure free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz without tolls or restrictions, for the sake of regional stability and the global economy.
In addition to the discussions on the Strait of Hormuz, Tajani mentioned that they talked about the situation in Lebanon. He expressed hope that ongoing negotiations in Rome would produce tangible results to strengthen the ceasefire and achieve a comprehensive agreement.
Tajani also reaffirmed Italy's commitment to fostering dialogue, security, and peace in the Middle East. Recent reports from Iranian media indicate that Tehran is nearing an understanding with Muscat on a new navigation corridor, contingent upon the cessation of US interference in the negotiations. Iranian officials have consistently accused Washington of trying to influence the talks and delay an agreement through military threats.
These negotiations are part of efforts stemming from a memorandum of understanding signed by Iran and the US on June 18, aimed at ending a conflict that began on February 28 following US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Under this memorandum, Iran and Muscat were assigned the responsibility of negotiating future arrangements for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while broader discussions on implementing the agreement continue.