Iran, Oman, US ‘close’ to Hormuz deal: What do they all want?

What the report says

Iran, Oman and the United States appear to be nearing an interim understanding over the Strait of Hormuz, according to Al Jazeera. The proposed arrangement is meant to reopen the vital shipping route, ease tensions after months of disruption, and potentially create room for wider talks involving Iran’s nuclear programme and other disputes. The article says Oman is acting as a mediator, while Tehran says it is negotiating with Muscat rather than directly with Washington.

The core issue is who manages traffic through the strait and whether Iran can require fees or other permissions from commercial vessels. Al Jazeera reports that Iran wants shipping lanes that respect its and Oman’s territorial waters and security concerns, while the US wants free passage without Iranian approval or tolls. The outlet also notes that commercial traffic has been sharply reduced, and that a recent report of a cargo ship hit near Oman has added to the sense of urgency.

President Donald Trump signaled that talks were advancing, although he also repeated threats of military action. Iranian officials described the Oman talks as positive but said US threats remain a major obstacle. Al Jazeera says one possible temporary formula would split inbound and outbound traffic between lanes in Iranian and Omani waters, with no transit fees during an initial period.

If finalized, even a limited deal could help stabilize energy markets and reduce the risk of further escalation in a waterway that carries a large share of global oil trade.