The negotiations between Iran and Oman have reached a turning point that seems to undermine international laws related to innocent passage through the Strait of Hormuz. While the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have refrained from accepting these agreements, the new conditions allow Iran to have greater control over this strategic waterway.
New Agreements and Their Implications
Under the new conditions, the new channel passing through the Strait of Hormuz must traverse the territorial waters of Iran and Oman. However, the entrances to this channel will be located in Iranian waters, granting Iran a veto right over the passage of ships. On the other hand, Oman also seems to have lost the right to use its territorial waters for innocent passage. These changes are clearly in contradiction with the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
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The Position of the United States and GCC Reaction
Reports indicate that the United States has been involved in these negotiations and was prepared to accept these agreements. This has provoked a strong reaction from the GCC countries. They are concerned that this agreement will undermine their ability to trade, export, and choose their security partners. Additionally, this agreement implies the maintenance of Iran's threatening capabilities regarding drones, missiles, and its regional expansionist programs.
Moreover, the Gulf countries have realized that if they want to defend their national sovereignty, they must fight for it. These conferences and negotiations specifically reflect the GCC countries' unwillingness to accept these agreements as an imposed reality.
In Yemen, the GCC countries have found that the Houthis' agreement with President Trump not to attack American interests has been a strategy to prevent U.S. intervention. This strategy allows the Houthis to strengthen their military objectives, thereby positioning themselves better to counter any potential U.S. military intervention.
Iran is seeking to increase attacks on GCC ships and facilities to alleviate the pressures resulting from the U.S. maritime blockade. This blockade has been fully effective, and Iran needs financial resources to maintain its power. While the U.S. Navy can continue the blockade with minimal risks, Iran is desperately seeking a way to break free from this blockade.
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