Iran and Oman have postponed planned negotiations concerning the Hormuz Strait, a decision made at the request of several regional nations. Mohammad Ali Bak, an official from Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced the postponement on 13/9. Iran had previously indicated that Iraq and Gulf nations would join discussions on this vital maritime route.

Oman News Agency (ONM) reported on the same day that the parties decided to defer the regional meeting, initially scheduled for 14/9 in Salalah, to a later date. This postponement is intended "to facilitate constructive dialogue." Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi affirmed the decision, stating it "is based on the interest of consensus." He further posted on social media X, "We remain steadfast in dialogue to contribute to long-term stability and cooperation in the region."

A motorboat near a cargo ship anchored off Iran's port city of Bandar Abbas, along the Hormuz Strait, on 6/9. *AP*

The Hormuz Strait is a crucial maritime passage through which 20% of the world's crude oil passes. It was blockaded immediately after the Middle East conflict erupted. According to AP, many regional officials had hoped Gulf nations could use the meeting to formulate a joint response to the conflict, which began without their consensus. Iran has repeatedly attacked military targets and infrastructure in neighboring countries as part of its retaliation against the US and Israel since the conflict escalated. While vessels previously passed freely, Iran is now requiring them to seek permission and is considering charging service fees.

Muscat and Tehran have discussed management options for Hormuz in recent weeks. During this period, Iranian armed forces have repeatedly attacked vessels that did not comply with requirements. Concurrently, the US military has continuously attacked areas off Iran's southern coast to prevent it from maintaining control of the strait.

Routes through the Hormuz Strait before Iran and Oman agreed on new routes. *CNN*

Further escalating tensions, Iran's IRNA news agency reported on 13/9 that one of its cargo ships was attacked off Qeshm Island, resulting in one fatality and four injuries. Qeshm Island, located about 22 km from the port city of Bandar Abbas, plays a key role in Iran's control of the Hormuz Strait. The US military has not commented on the incident. When asked about the event, President Donald Trump responded, "I don't want to talk about that."

Hours before the attack, President Masoud Pezeshkian declared, "Iran will not surrender, the Iranian people will not be subdued by bullying." Meanwhile, Trump stated, "Iran is very eager to reach a deal, to the point where they are constantly calling."