Key Facts

• The IRGC insists that ships use only routes through the Strait of Hormuz approved by Iran.
• Oman announced a new shipping transit route through the strait, coordinated with the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
• The dispute covers control and safety of shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil and gas transport.
• The US and Iran recently signed a memorandum of understanding that paused hostilities and started negotiations regarding the strait.
• The strait sees about 20 million barrels of oil and petroleum products shipped daily, which is about one-fifth of the world’s supply.
• The strait is bordered by Iran to the north, and Oman and the UAE to the south, and is a narrow but vital route for energy exports.
• Iran objects to Oman’s new route, saying it was announced without Iranian approval and threatens safety.
• Iran previously issued a map directing ships to pass closer to its coast than before, asserting greater control over the shipping lanes.