• Iran’s parliament member Khazrian says Oman cannot unilaterally open the Strait of Hormuz, requiring Iranian coordination.
  • The comments escalate pressure on Oman as talks over joint monitoring of the waterway intensify, amid US-led efforts to secure shipping.
  • Any unilateral Iranian move risks renewed volatility in oil markets and sanctions-related risk premiums.

Iran’s position on the Strait of Hormuz hardened on Friday, with a senior lawmaker asserting that Oman cannot proceed with opening the strategic waterway without Tehran’s approval. “Oman cannot open Hormuz. Hormuz requires Iran coordination,” said Ebrahim Khazrian, a member of Iran’s parliament, according to local media. The remarks come as the two nations hold talks on a potential protocol for monitoring and overseeing traffic through the chokepoint, which handles about 20% of global oil shipments.

Khazrian’s statement suggests Iran is prepared to move forward unilaterally if Oman resists coordination. “We have our own plans if our neighbor does not align,” he added, without elaborating. The comments underscore Tehran’s determination to retain leverage over the waterway, even as the US and Gulf allies push for open navigation. A person familiar with the talks said Oman has been reluctant to cede control, though it remains open to a joint framework.

The Strait of Hormuz is a perennial flashpoint in US-Iran tensions, and threats to disrupt shipping have historically triggered spikes in oil prices and insurance costs. Any formal agreement could stabilize transit in the near term, but analysts warn unilateral action by Iran would likely escalate risks. “A monitoring protocol might calm markets temporarily, but if Iran acts alone, expect immediate volatility,” said a Gulf-based energy consultant, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters.

Efforts to reach Omani officials for comment were unsuccessful. The US Fifth Fleet, which patrols the region, declined to comment on the negotiations.

This report has been updated to clarify that Khazrian’s comments were made Friday.