Tehran: Iran announced on Monday that talks with Oman over transit regulations through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz are advancing "smoothly and constructively." "An understanding has been reached about the shipping traffic map and consultations are continuing to finalize some technical points in the joint statement," stated Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei during a weekly news conference, as reported by the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

According to Anadolu Agency, the discussions are focusing on establishing mechanisms to ensure safe maritime traffic, protect the environment, and address issues related to "maritime crimes." Baqaei emphasized that costs and fees for maritime services provided to vessels will be clearly defined. The primary aim of the talks between Tehran and Muscat is to reach a lasting understanding that guarantees the complete security of the strait.

Baqaei clarified that the discussions with Oman are purely a bilateral effort to determine a safe route for international shipping and are unrelated to any political differences. He also reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until Washington addresses Tehran's demands, which include lifting the naval blockade of Iranian ports.

These developments occur against the backdrop of a broader negotiation process between Iran and the US, which has been stalled. The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding in June, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, to cease active hostilities and initiate talks towards a more comprehensive agreement. However, progress has been hampered by mutual accusations of non-compliance with the memorandum's terms.

During the conference, Baqaei mentioned that the final decision regarding the composition and level of Iran's delegation to the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting in September remains pending and will be announced shortly.