On August 18, according to Xinhua news agency, Qatari Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari said that diplomatic efforts in the region are currently focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and bringing the parties back to implement the contents stipulated in the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran.
Speaking at a regular press conference, Mr. Al Ansari said the latest tense developments related to "violations of the ceasefire and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz".
Qatar is still waiting for an agreement between Oman and Iran on maritime activities through the Strait of Hormuz. According to Mr. Al Ansari, reaching an agreement between the two countries will contribute to paving the way for the next negotiation process between the parties.
The only way to move forward is to cease fire, open the Strait of Hormuz, return to normal operation or ensure freedom of navigation and return to negotiations," Al Ansari said.
In recent months, Iran and Oman have conducted exchanges on mechanisms to ensure maritime operations through the Strait of Hormuz. On August 17, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said that the two countries had agreed on a new maritime route map through the strait. The agreement is expected to be completed in the form of a package of documents, including a maritime route map and a joint statement.
The Strait of Hormuz is located between Iran and Oman, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This is one of the important sea routes for international energy transportation.
Negotiations between Iran and Oman on the maritime route take place in the context of tensions in the region continuing to affect transportation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Qatar said that removing obstacles related to this maritime route is one of the necessary steps to bring the situation back to stability and create conditions for the diplomatic process to resume.
