Iran parliament to debate Hormuz oversight, foreign influence bills

Iran's parliament is scheduled to hold a virtual session on Sunday to examine separate bills addressing foreign influence operations and establishing a "Smart Management Plan" for the Strait of Hormuz, state-run broadcaster IRIB reported on Saturday. Members of the National Security Committee will review the proposed oversight mechanisms for the strategic waterway during the virtual meeting.

Legislative Review

The committee will scrutinize the Hormuz oversight proposal alongside legislation targeting international crimes and external interference in domestic affairs, the outlet reported. Iranian officials have framed both measures as essential to safeguarding national sovereignty amid heightened regional tensions.

Oman Shipping Deal

The parliamentary review coincides with a Foreign Ministry announcement that Tehran and Muscat have finalized a comprehensive shipping route map for the strait after weeks of technical negotiations. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Saturday the agreement represents progress toward establishing a new navigation framework under the Iran-US memorandum of understanding.

US Obligations

Under the memorandum's terms, Iran and Oman were tasked with developing technical protocols for safe passage, though Iranian officials maintain that any decision to fully reopen the waterway hinges on Washington fulfilling its obligations. Tehran has repeatedly emphasized that restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for global energy shipments — will continue until the US meets its commitments under the bilateral pact.