Iran, Oman to jointly manage Strait of Hormuz under international law

WEB DESK: Iran has announced that it will jointly manage the Strait of Hormuz with Oman in accordance with international law, emphasising the strategic waterway’s importance for safe maritime passage.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Thursday that the two countries bordering the strait possess the “natural right” to coordinate its management, according to Anadolu Agency.

In remarks aired by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, citing Lebanon’s Al Mayadeen TV, he said decisions on the strait’s administration would ultimately rest with Iran and Oman, though Tehran would consult Gulf nations on related developments.

The comments come amid ongoing regional uncertainties following recent conflicts involving Israel, Hezbollah, and broader diplomatic manoeuvres involving the United States.

Araghchi stressed that efforts were focused on ensuring secure passage for all vessels through the vital chokepoint, which handles a significant portion of global oil trade.

He also noted continued communication with Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, whose directives were being implemented precisely, and highlighted broad national consensus around the leadership.

Military adviser reaffirms support for allies

A top military adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, Mohsen Rezaei, separately affirmed Tehran’s readiness to back its regional partners, particularly Hezbollah.

In an interview with Iranian state television, Rezaei said missiles had been prepared in response to Israeli threats against Beirut’s southern suburbs. He warned Israel against involvement in Lebanon, describing the country as an “inseparable part” of any future agreement.

Rezaei portrayed the Strait of Hormuz as a “strong deterrence arm” for Iran, open for commercial shipping but not for military posturing.

He accused Washington of maintaining pressure despite smooth commercial traffic and called for the release of at least $24b in frozen Iranian assets to build trust in negotiations.

US lawmakers reject war powers measure

In Washington, the US House of Representatives blocked a resolution aimed at limiting American military involvement in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes have caused significant casualties since early March. The “Lebanon War Powers Resolution,” introduced by Representative Rashida Tlaib, was rejected by a 92-324 vote.

Tlaib expressed disappointment but vowed to continue pushing for congressional oversight. Democratic leaders, while opposing the initial measure, signalled support for an alternative resolution and stated there were currently no US forces engaged in combat operations in Lebanon. The vote followed a renewed ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel.

US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, said Washington did not require a deal with Iran to secure its enriched uranium, claiming it could be obtained “right now” as it was “entombed.”

He expressed no immediate desire to meet Iran’s supreme leader but left the door open for future engagement if an agreement materialised.