Iran nears Hormuz shipping agreement with Oman, says reopening hinges on U.S. actions

Iran announced that it has reached an understanding with Oman on a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz and is finalizing a joint framework to manage the strategic waterway. However, Tehran said reopening the strait to international shipping remains contingent on the United States ending what it describes as a naval blockade of Iranian ports.

 

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said both sides have agreed on the proposed route and are preparing a joint statement, provided no external parties interfere. He added that the security risks in the Strait of Hormuz persist due to continued U.S. naval activities and other actions against Iran.

 

The Strait of Hormuz, which previously handled about 20% of global oil and LNG exports, has remained at the center of heightened geopolitical tensions since the conflict involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel began. Iran has maintained tighter control over vessel movements in the waterway, while some ships have opted for alternative routes closer to Oman.

 

Although U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Tehran is interested in reaching an agreement to reopen the strait, Iran has denied holding direct negotiations with Washington, reiterating that discussions are taking place only with Oman.