Strait of Hormuz crisis: Oman proposes deal with Iran as Qatar warns of LNG delays
Al Jazeera has learned that Oman has sent a proposal to Iran on jointly managing the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial waterway that has effectively
Al Jazeera has learned that Oman has sent a proposal to Iran on jointly managing the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial waterway that has effectively been closed since the start of the war between the US and Iran. Sources say Oman's joint mechanism would see countries pay a voluntary toll to pass the strait, while Tehran has demanded a mandatory fee and that ships use pre-approved routes.
The closure has had a huge impact on crucial exports from the Gulf, including oil, gas, and fertilisers, with QatarEnergy warning a major European buyer that it will not be able to deliver LNG until late September, while Asian buyers face delays that could last into October. Before the war, around a fifth of the world's LNG and a quarter of the world's crude oil flowed through the strait, now down to a trickle.
The strait also carried around 30 percent of the world's maritime fertiliser trade, making it vital for global food supply chains. Countries with less purchasing power, including Pakistan and Bangladesh, could face greater difficulty securing expensive energy supplies. The crisis also threatens fertiliser production and agriculture, raising concerns about food security well beyond the Gulf.
Al Jazeera's Osama Bin Javaid reports from Doha. Find us on Check our website Check out our Instagram page Download AJE Mobile App
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