Strait of Hormuz diplomacy vs reality: Iran and Oman are negotiating a new arrangement that could let Tehran oversee Gulf-bound entry while Muscat manages outbound traffic, as talks remain fragile and shipping stays disrupted. Hormuz security and the environment: With more than 1,500 ships stranded, analysts warn the stalled fleet could spread invasive species via biofouling when trade resumes, turning a maritime crisis into a long-term ecological one. Oman oil spill response: Oman’s Environment Authority says oil pollution near Ras Madrakah has affected about 12 km of coastline, while Masirah Island shows no significant impact so far; monitoring and containment continue as models track further movement. Escalating attacks, rising risks: Reports of projectile and drone strikes on vessels in the Omani corridor keep the threat level high, raising concerns for marine life and coastal fisheries. Oman policy and protection: Oman’s TRA issued new rules tightening controls on promotional calls and protecting customer data, adding another layer of consumer safeguards amid regional instability. Local sustainability efforts: ARA Petroleum is exploring biofuel and biohydrogen from oilfield produced water, and Oman has launched a seasonal kingfish fishing ban to protect breeding stocks.