Egypt and Oman called for political and diplomatic avenues to prevent an escalation of tensions and preserve security and stability in the Middle East.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi discussed developments in the region during a phone call on Saturday. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry said the ministers emphasized maintaining consultations and close coordination in the coming period.
Call for safe passage in Hormuz
Freedom of maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz was one of the main topics of the call. Abdelatty called for the necessary conditions to be established so that navigation in the strait could return to its normal course and ships could pass safely, securely and freely.
Abdelatty highlighted the impact of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz on the global economy, energy security, supply chains and international trade.
Egypt calls for a return to US-Iran dialogue
The Egyptian foreign minister said existing diplomatic initiatives capable of reducing tensions should be advanced. Abdelatty said this could help create an environment conducive to returning to the memorandum of understanding signed between the United States and Iran.
Abdelatty also called for the resumption of the negotiation process between Tehran and Washington and for reaching a comprehensive, sustainable understanding that would strengthen security and stability in the region.
After the June 2026 understanding
Washington and Tehran reached an interim understanding in June 2026 that provided for the cessation of military operations, the resumption of ship passages through the Strait of Hormuz and time for negotiations on a more comprehensive agreement.
The understanding faltered after disagreements over the implementation of its provisions and the future of navigation in the strait. Washington announced in July 2026 that the agreement had ended, while Iran announced that it had suspended the understanding.
The conflict began on February 28, 2026, with US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Iran responded by targeting Israel, US facilities and bases in the region; military operations resumed after periods of ceasefire.
The Strait of Hormuz remained one of the main areas of contention in the conflict because of its strategic position for energy supplies and global trade. The ministers' phone call also addressed bilateral relations between Egypt and Oman and issues of common interest.
