The Sultanate of Oman has reiterated that it is absolutely essential for all concerned that the Strait of Hormuz remains secure, unhindered, and unimpeded, and has warned that any impediment in that regard would pose serious challenges to global trade, the world economy, and food security. Strait of Hormuz Navigation
At an organized panel discussion at the World Trade Organization Public Forum 2026, which is based on the theme of protecting the vulnerable economy in times of passageway disruptions at sea, Idris Abdulrahman Al Khanjari, Permanent Representative of Oman to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva, has presented the official address of his nation.
The narrow waterway handles nearly one-fifth of global petroleum supplies and a quarter of seaborne oil trade daily, making any regional shipping instability a major catalyst for volatile global commodity spikes.
Highlighting the acute vulnerabilities facing developing markets, Al Khanjari pointed out that regional maritime volatility immediately cascades into elevated freight rates, soaring insurance premiums, and higher baseline commodity costs.
Countries with reduced fiscal capacity face disproportionate economic stress when key distribution routes experience delays, directly threatening long-term sustainable development objectives. Furthermore, the Sultanate drew attention to maritime worker safety, citing recent humanitarian assistance rendered to commercial vessel crew members off the Musandam peninsula as a clear reminder of the human element in global shipping security.
To prevent escalating tensions, Oman is pursuing structured consultations with neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council members and Iranian authorities. These diplomatic talks aim to establish viable, durable agreements ensuring smooth vessel movement while respecting complex legal, security, and navigational frameworks.
Rooted in a foreign policy defined by quiet diplomacy, constructive neutrality, and respect for sovereign borders, the Sultanate continues to champion open communication channels. Omani officials maintain that sustained dialogue provides the necessary framework to reduce miscalculations, foster trust, and deliver peaceful solutions, ensuring that international maritime law and the law of the sea remain fully respected across key waterways. Oman Daily Report
