Tanker Attacked in Vital Strait; Iran and Oman Discuss Shipping Future
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) reported a missile attack on an oil tanker on Saturday. The tanker is linked to its state oil company, ADNOC. The attack happened in the Strait of Hormuz. No people were hurt in the incident.
The UK maritime trade monitor, UKMTO, confirmed that a vessel caught fire after being hit. The fire was put out quickly. No environmental damage was reported. Iranian authorities have not yet commented on the attack.
This incident happened as Iran and Oman announced they are close to a new shipping agreement. This agreement concerns how ships will move through the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway is vital for sending oil and gas around the world.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said talks with Oman are “very close” to a deal. However, he noted that fully reopening the Strait depends on more conditions. These conditions include the United States (US) paying compensation to Iran.
Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, a top Iranian security official, listed other demands. Iran wants the US to stop threatening it. It also wants an end to attacks against Iran and its allies. Lifting blockades and sanctions on Iran is also a demand. Iran also seeks the release of its frozen assets.
Oman condemned attacks on ships in the Strait. Oman did not blame anyone directly. It called its talks with Iran about shipping “positive and constructive.”
A US official said on Friday that an agreement between Iran and Oman was expected soon. This deal would allow normal oil traffic to restart. Before the recent conflict, one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas moved through the Strait.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian believes this is a good time for an agreement. He said Iran feels strong and united. The Revolutionary Guards, an Iranian military group, also spoke. Their spokesperson, Hossein Mohebbi, said the Strait would only reopen if the US accepts Iran’s conditions.
A proposed deal would give Tehran control over ships entering the Gulf through the Strait. US officials have repeatedly said they would never agree to Iran controlling this route. The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most important trade route for energy supplies. The ongoing conflict has disrupted global shipments. This has caused energy prices to rise and contributed to inflation.
