Hormuz reopening depends on US despite Oman deal- Iran

Iran and Oman have reached an agreement on a designated route for ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz, with final arrangements for joint management of the strategic waterway reportedly underway, according to Iranian officials. However, fresh security incidents underscore the continued risks to regional shipping, and Tehran insists that any easing of transit depends on Washington lifting its naval blockade of Iranian ports.

Iran has asserted de facto control over the waterway and has threatened vessels it deems unauthorized since the conflict began. While U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested Iran is eager for a deal to reopen Hormuz, Iran denies this, stating it is pursuing arrangements with Oman. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei indicated that the geographical coordinates of the agreed route are settled, and a joint statement is being drafted, provided no third parties interfere.

Baqaei emphasized that even with an understanding with Oman, the strait's safety for all vessels is not guaranteed. He cited "the naval blockade and other aggressive and threatening actions against Iran and its interests" by the United States as persistent factors making the Strait of Hormuz insecure. This statement comes amid heightened tensions and security concerns in the vital shipping lane.

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The geographical coordinates of the route envisaged by the two sides have been agreed upon and, if certain third parties do not obstruct the process, the joint statement of the two countries, containing the main considerations and points of agreement, is also in the final review and drafting stage.

Highlighting these risks, the captain of an oil tanker reported hearing two explosions while transiting the strait. Separately, Yemen's Houthis claimed responsibility for striking two Saudi oil tankers, marking the eighth and ninth vessels hit since they imposed a blockade on Saudi Arabia last month. These incidents add to the economic and political pressure on Washington, as Hormuz previously carried about a fifth of the world's oil and LNG exports, with prices repeatedly surging since the dispute began.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the frustrations with diplomatic progress with Iran, attributing the slow pace to internal divisions within Iran's leadership. He described the negotiation process as potentially "messy" and time-consuming.

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The factors making the Strait of Hormuz insecure still exist on the part of the United States, particularly the naval blockade and other aggressive and threatening actions against Iran and its interests.