Iran is jealously competing with Oman as decision-maker over strait of Hormuz
Key takeaways
- Oman proposed a southern route through the strait of Hormuz near its shoreline but the plan had to be abandoned after Iran attacked a ship using the route on Thursday.
- The strait of Hormuz is Iran’s chief bargaining tool in the negotiations with America and so it was always likely to be the greatest point of contention.
- For Iran, the continuation of the dispute is not a problem so long as it does not lose control.
Why this matters: a developing story that could shape the day's news cycle.
Oman proposed a southern route through the strait of Hormuz near its shoreline but the plan had to be abandoned after Iran attacked a ship using the route on Thursday. Photograph: Reuters View image in fullscreen Oman proposed a southern route through the strait of Hormuz near its shoreline but the plan had to be abandoned after Iran attacked a ship using the route on Thursday. Photograph: Reuters Strait of Hormuz Analysis Iran is jealously competing with Oman as decision-maker over strait of Hormuz Patrick WintourTehran believes it should control the shipping route but its neighbour has its own plans for reopening it
The strait of Hormuz is Iran’s chief bargaining tool in the negotiations with America and so it was always likely to be the greatest point of contention. Every metre of the 39-kilometre-wide waterway is being contested in a test of wills and patience.
For Iran, the continuation of the dispute is not a problem so long as it does not lose control.