Hormuz deal ‘close’: What’s the latest on each side’s positions?

What the report says

Iran and Oman are reported to be close to finalizing an agreement on a temporary shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway linking the Gulf with the Gulf of Oman. Al Jazeera reported on August 6, 2026, that Iranian officials say the talks are in the final drafting stage, with both sides having agreed on route coordinates, but no formal announcement date has been set.

The negotiations follow months of disruption after the strait was closed during heightened conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. According to the article, the earlier framework signed by Washington and Tehran on June 17 collapsed, and recent talks have focused on technical, legal, security and environmental issues. Iran says it is negotiating only with Oman and insists the waterway should be managed according to the two countries’ territorial waters.

The main dispute remains over control and fees. Iranian officials have suggested that ships may use new inbound and outbound routes for a limited period and that some form of charge could be introduced for services. US officials, however, say they would not accept any arrangement that leaves Iran in control of transit, requires approval for passage or imposes tolls. President Donald Trump also rejected the idea of Iranian charges.

Oman is presented as a mediator seeking stability and a possible opening for broader regional talks. The article notes that even if a deal is announced, it would not necessarily end the wider crisis or settle longer-term rules for shipping through the strait.