Oman and Iran negotiate Hormuz Strait security as Germany readies de‑mining mission

After several days of heightened tension in the Persian Gulf, Oman and Iran are discussing a joint framework to improve navigation safety in the Hormuz Strait. Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr al‑Busaidi said any agreement must respect international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, rejecting proposals for transit fees. The talks focus on enhanced safety measures, environmental protection, navigation services and, importantly, the removal of mines that Iran is responsible for under previous accords.

Germany’s Bundeswehr is preparing for a possible de‑mining operation in the strait. The mine‑hunter Fulda and supply ship Mosel have transited the Suez Canal and are en route to Djibouti for final preparations. Around 140 German service members are aboard, pending parliamentary approval and consent from the coastal states, including Oman and Iran. The mission would draw on Germany’s experience in mine clearance and employ unmanned surface and underwater drones to locate and neutralise mines that have disrupted oil and LNG shipments.