Iran and Oman have begun diplomatic discussions focused on restoring movement through the Strait of Hormuz, with officials confirming the talks are underway between the two neighbouring countries.

The confirmation comes after earlier indications that communication was taking place, and just a day before a deadline set by Donald Trump regarding potential escalation of military action against Iran, giving the talks added urgency.

The discussions are expected to centre on ensuring the safe passage of ships through the crucial maritime route, which has faced severe disruption. The situation has significantly affected global trade, with maritime traffic, including oil and energy shipments, largely stalled and thousands of vessels waiting on either side of the strait.

Iran is likely to approach the talks with a long-term perspective, maintaining leverage over the strategic waterway as an economic pressure point. While it lacks nuclear deterrence, control over the strait has enabled Tehran to influence global trade and energy flows.

Oman, meanwhile, is expected to push for measures to prevent further disruptions, including arrangements to safeguard shipping routes, establish security frameworks for vessels and develop mechanisms to de-escalate both the current conflict and potential future crises.

Reopening the Strait of Hormuz remains a key objective for Oman and the broader international community, with the talks seen as a significant diplomatic effort at the deputy minister level to stabilise the situation and avoid further escalation.

#From Al Jazeera