Oman drafts proposal for separate Strait of Hormuz lanes, with southern route free of Iran's permit requirements

According to a source familiar with the matter speaking to CNN, Oman has drafted a proposal to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz through two separate shipping lanes. The southern route, in Omani waters, would allow free passage without permits, while the northern route, in Iranian waters, would require prior approval from Iran but no fee. The proposal has not yet been finalized.

Oman has drafted a detailed proposal for managing the Strait of Hormuz through two separate shipping lanes, according to a source familiar with the matter speaking to CNN. The proposal, which has not yet been finalized, comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the status of the strategic waterway. Under the plan, the southern route passing through Omani territorial waters would allow free passage as before the military strikes against Iran, while the northern route in Iranian waters would require prior approval from Iran but no fees. This follows a previous Omani proposal reported by The Zioneer earlier tonight (Saturday, July 11, 22:32 Jerusalem), in which Oman proposed full operation of both routes. Iran did not approve that proposal and deferred a decision. The new draft represents a more detailed framework for the same two-route approach. The southern route effectively bypasses Iran's control, which had tightened after Iran established the Persian Strait Authority and mandated prior clearance for commercial vessels. The Omani initiative has been coordinated with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for a temporary shipping lane. The proposal is seen as a response to the ongoing contest over the Strait, where approximately 70% of traffic had shifted to Omani waters earlier this year, before Iran reportedly regained control. The plan faces uncertain prospects as Iran's position remains unclear.

3 developments

1. 2 hours ago · 00:11 · 12 JulLatest

   Oman proposes separate shipping lanes: free southern route, permit-required northern route.

2. 22:32 · 11 Jul

   Oman proposed full route operation; Iran deferred decision for internal review.

3. 22:25 · 11 Jul

   CNN: Oman proposes to Iran to open two routes in Strait of Hormuz

• Developing17:51 · 1 JulIran and Oman advance joint plan for Strait of Hormuz transit fees
• Strong00:16 · 26 JunIran says it will hold talks with Oman to set fees for Strait of Hormuz passage
• Developing6 days ago · 18:18 · 5 JulIran reportedly rejects Omani plan for alternative southern route to Hormuz under US supervision
• Strong15:10 · 25 JunOman affirms freedom of navigation in Strait of Hormuz, rejects any transit fees

Source and signal

• Internal intake