Iran and Oman clash over control of Strait of Hormuz as US and Gulf allies plan alternate route

Guardian—Iran and Oman are competing for influence over navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most critical oil shipping chokepoint, as both nations pursue talks on managing maritime traffic in the waterway. Iran, jealous of Oman's growing role as a mediator and decision-maker over the strait, is pushing to assert its own authority over shipping lanes it borders. Meanwhile, the United States and Gulf allies are quietly developing an alternative shipping corridor to reduce dependence on the strait. The maneuvering reflects broader regional realignment as the Iran nuclear talks proceed.

• Guardian — Iran is pushing back against Oman's growing role as the de facto decision-maker over the strait.
• Fox News — The US and Gulf allies are quietly carving out a new shipping route to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.
• Al Arabiya — Oman and Iran opened talks on jointly managing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.