Iran announced on Saturday that it is nearing a deal with Oman regarding control of the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, but cautioned that this agreement would not resolve the ongoing disruptions in the waterway. The United Arab Emirates reported that Iran had attacked another vessel in the strait, escalating tensions further, reports BritPanorama.
A U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated on Friday that an agreement between Iran and Oman is expected soon, which would allow normal oil traffic to resume through the strait. The negotiations are critical, as control over this waterway dictates a significant portion of global oil and gas trade.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi indicated that while an agreement on a new shipping route is imminent, reopening the strait is contingent on other factors, including potential compensation from the U.S. He emphasized that the pre-existing traffic separation scheme was no longer acceptable to Tehran.
Iran’s recent military actions, which have included targeting U.S. bases and shipping in the strait, have raised concerns. The narrow corridor carried a substantial share of the world’s oil and gas shipments before the conflict escalated.
On Saturday, the UAE reported that a missile had struck a carrier affiliated with its state oil company while it was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, although no injuries were reported. This attack marks the latest incident in a series targeting shipping in this critical maritime route.
U.S. to lift Iran blockade once deal is announced, official says
The Trump administration has signaled a possible near-term resolution for the strait, but Iran has denied that negotiations are taking place. The outcome of the ongoing discussions remains uncertain.
A U.S. official remarked, “There is progress between Oman and Iran on the strait, and we expect a deal soon. Once the deal is announced to restore commercial shipping without impediments, the United States will lift the blockade of Iranian ports.” However, he added that U.S. actions would hinge on Iran adhering to its commitments.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also commented that reopening the Strait of Hormuz was tied to U.S. acceptance of Iran’s conditions, asserting that these negotiations with Oman were separate from U.S. involvement. The spokesperson did not disclose the specific conditions required.
Sources said a deal would give Iran some control
A proposed agreement between Iran and Oman could provide Tehran with control over the shipping activities entering the Gulf via the strait, according to a senior Iranian source and two regional officials. This concession could significantly alter the dynamics in the region.
U.S. officials have repeatedly claimed they would not allow Iran to dictate access to this vital trade route. It remains unclear whether they are seeking to amend the parameters of the potential agreement. Iran has asserted its right to impose tolls on oil tankers and to retaliate against those violating its directives, disrupting global supply chains and affecting energy prices.
In the context of ongoing hostilities, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company reported on Friday that its fleet had endured unprovoked attacks during transit, resulting in one fatality and 20 injuries. Iranian reports on such incidents typically imply violations of its orders without explicit acknowledgment of responsibility.
The escalation of Iranian strikes in the Strait of Hormuz coincides with intensified assaults by Iran’s allies in Yemen, the Houthis, who have engaged in similar confrontations in other critical maritime passages. The situation continues to develop, reflecting broader tensions in the region.
