Iran has proposed a new arrangement for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, allowing vessels to pass through the Omani section of the waterway without facing Iranian attacks. The proposal, however, would only take effect if Washington agrees to Tehran’s demands. The announcement comes amid heightened regional tensions following the outbreak of war between Iran, the United States, and Israel on February 28.

Since the conflict began, Iran has imposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route that normally sees 120 to 140 ships pass daily. The blockade has forced oil tankers to take longer alternative routes, disrupting global energy supply chains and driving up fuel prices in many countries.

According to international maritime monitoring organizations, hundreds of ships and more than 2,000 crew members remain stranded in the strait due to the ongoing blockade, underscoring the severe impact on global trade and energy markets.