Egypt, Oman FMs stress need to keep Strait of Hormuz open

Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptians Expatriates Badr Abdelatty on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, discussed over phone with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi bilateral relations and regional developments.

Abdelatty and Busaidi praised the depth and distinctiveness of the fraternal and historic ties between Egypt and Oman, noting the growing momentum in relations amid the strong ties between President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman.

They affirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation across various fields in a way that serves the interests of the two countries and their peoples.

The phone call tackled developments in the region, particularly the anticipated Iranian-Omani joint announcement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and Oman’s efforts in this regard.

The two top diplomats stressed the importance of ensuring the security, safety and freedom of navigation through the strait, saying this would help ease tensions and create conditions for a return to negotiations under the memorandum of understanding, with the aim of reaching a comprehensive and sustainable agreement addressing various concerns and bolstering regional security and stability.

Abdelatty and Busaidi underscored the vital importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to international shipping, noting that the continuation of the current situation would affect not only countries in the region but also the global economy, energy security, supply chains and international trade.

The two sides stressed the need to continue diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, ensure freedom of navigation and avoid any steps that could further heighten tensions in the region.

They agreed to maintain close consultations and coordination over regional developments in the coming period and to support all efforts aimed at de-escalation and prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions to safeguard the security and stability of the region.