Oman has prepared a draft agreement aimed at keeping merchant traffic moving through the Strait of Hormuz amid recent disruptions and heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.

The proposal, reported by international media citing a source close to the discussions, would set up two parallel navigation corridors in the strait. Under the plan, the southern route would run through Oman’s territorial waters and allow vessels to transit under “pre-war” arrangements, with navigation treated as freely permitted in line with conditions before the current conflict period.

A second, northern corridor would pass through Iranian territorial waters. Vessels choosing this route would need to request prior permission from Tehran before transiting. Reports say the draft does not include transit fees or charges for using the northern corridor.

The agreement is not yet finalized. Diplomats have been discussing “safe passage” mechanisms with Oman and Iran looking to define practical arrangements for navigation while political consultations continue.

Oman’s proposed corridors have been discussed as part of broader efforts to reduce risks for shipping in the strategically vital waterway, through which a large share of global energy supplies are transported