By The South Asia Times

TEHRAN - Iran has formally communicated its position and conditions regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz to the United States through Pakistani mediators, according to Iranian media reports citing informed sources.

The development comes as diplomatic efforts intensify to restore safe navigation through the waterway, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments that has seen severely reduced traffic amid heightened regional tensions, Reuters reported.

Omani and Iranian foreign ministers discussed a phased framework that would provide a "practical and implementable basis" for resuming safe navigation through the strait, according to a joint statement.

The proposed framework includes the establishment of a joint temporary shipping lane through the strait and an agreement to implement a joint project to clear the waterway of mines.

Both sides emphasized the importance of holding joint discussions with countries overlooking gulf waters.

Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi expressed optimism about the negotiations in a social media post following what he described as "constructive dialogue" with his Iranian counterpart, Dr. Araghchi.

"I am hopeful we will soon announce a temporary corridor for the Strait of Hormuz and practical arrangements to restore safe navigation," Albusaidi wrote on X.

He added that future management of the strait and a permanent solution would follow "as per article 5 of the Islamabad Memorandum," with discussions to be conducted with regional partners in support of "peace and cooperation, stability and freedom of navigation".

Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary in the ongoing crisis, leveraging its unique diplomatic position with both Washington and Tehran. The South Asian nation has maintained communication channels with both sides while remaining outside the direct conflict.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently called on Pakistan to intensify its mediation efforts, commending Islamabad for facilitating US-Iran talks and helping extend a temporary ceasefire.

- Technical Negotiations Continue

The joint statement confirmed that technical negotiations between Oman and Iran would continue with the aim of reaching an agreement on a permanent shipping lane and future arrangements for managing the strait.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi recently indicated that an agreement on commercial vessel passage was nearing finalization, noting that the new transit model would differ from practices over the past 60 years. The new temporary lane is expected to remain in effect for two to four months