Tensions escalate in Strait of Hormuz as Iran and Oman discuss safe route

Six months after Iran restricted access through the Strait of Hormuz, maritime traffic through the vital waterway remains severely depressed, dropping from 95 to around 15 daily crossings. Tehran reiterated that the route will remain closed until Washington lifts port blockades, cancels petroleum sanctions, unfreezes Iranian assets, and halts military operations.

Military confrontations have intensified as US forces initiated night-time escorts for oil tankers. Iranian troops responded by deploying rocket-launched sea mines, which triggered a US strike against targets on Larak Island. Despite the military clashes, diplomatic channels remain open, with Iranian officials confirming a preliminary arrangement with Oman to establish a safe navigation route following three weeks of bilateral talks.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, Jornal Económico, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal).