Tehran: Iran announced Wednesday that it is on the verge of finalizing a significant agreement with Oman regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This development comes as US President Donald Trump signaled a potential breakthrough, suggesting that an announcement could be imminent. The resolution of this deal could reopen the critical maritime passage, potentially alleviating economic pressures worldwide and contributing to the resolution of ongoing conflicts.
According to France24.com, the agreement's success hinges on the US lifting its blockade on Iranian ports, a move that the Trump administration has previously dismissed due to concerns over Iran's control of the strait. Such control by Iran could signify a shift in regional power dynamics and contradict established international norms. Iran, however, remains steadfast in its demand for some level of control, resisting a return to the pre-war status of an open international waterway.
The conflict over the strait began with a war launched by the US and Israel on February 28, aimed at dismantling Tehran's government and nuclear program. While these objectives remain unmet, the strait has become a focal point of contention, with Iran asserting control and disrupting maritime traffic. The closure has significantly impacted global oil and gas trade, driving up prices and straining the world economy. President Trump faces increasing domestic pressure to resolve the unpopular conflict ahead of congressional elections.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei indicated that the agreement with Oman is nearing completion. A joint statement is expected unless external parties, presumably the US, intervene.
Regional officials have reported that Iranian and Omani negotiators have finalized a draft agreement to reopen the strait. This draft awaits approval from Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who has been absent from the public eye since reportedly being injured in the war's initial strikes. The officials, speaking anonymously, describe the draft as a temporary solution, linked to a previous, unsuccessful US-Iran agreement from June aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the waterway.
The potential agreement involves a system where ships would enter the Persian Gulf via an Iranian route and exit through an Omani-controlled passage, with associated service fees for security and environmental protection. The US opposes any deal allowing Iran to levy such charges.
President Trump hinted at an imminent resolution, indicating substantial progress. However, Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the complexities of the situation, characterizing the peace efforts as challenging and protracted.
Increased tensions in the region continue, with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claiming missile attacks on Saudi oil tankers, although no evidence was provided. Meanwhile, in southern Lebanon, the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah appears increasingly fragile, with recent Israeli military actions in response to alleged ceasefire violations. Diplomatic talks in Rome between Lebanese and Israeli negotiators were cut short due to escalating tensions but may resume.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic and military developments influencing the potential for a resolution to the conflicts tied to the Strait of Hormuz.