The United States, Iran, and Oman are reportedly close to reaching an interim agreement aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with an official announcement expected today, according to the US news website Axios.
Citing two regional sources and a US official, the report said the agreement follows weeks of negotiations and is intended to help restore a ceasefire between the United States and Iran and pave the way for renewed discussions on the nuclear issue.
According to the report, the proposed arrangement would address some of Iran’s demands regarding greater control over maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, which it did not have before the conflict.
Regional sources said the agreement would establish a 60-day temporary arrangement between Oman and Iran, with the possibility of an extension.
Under the reported arrangement, ships entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz would use the northern lane passing through Iranian waters, while vessels heading towards the Arabian Sea would use the southern lane passing through Omani waters in coordination with Iran. No tolls or fees would be charged during the 60-day period.
The report further stated that the parties would work to clear naval mines from the central lane of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days. After clearance, the central lane could be used for inbound and outbound maritime traffic under a permanent arrangement between Oman and Iran.
According to regional sources, officials from Qatar, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia were also involved in mediation efforts alongside Oman and Iran. The White House was reportedly actively engaged in the negotiations, with recent phone contacts involving US envoy Steve Witkoff, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi.
The report added that Araghchi had agreed in principle to the arrangement over the weekend but required approval from Iran’s leadership and the Supreme National Security Council. A US official and a regional source said the Iranian leadership completed the approval process on Tuesday.
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