Iran may gain control of ships entering Persian Gulf in Hormuz Strait deal

A potential agreement between Iran and Oman could grant Iran significant control over maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport. Sources and regional officials indicate that the proposed deal would allow Iran to manage ships entering and exiting the Persian Gulf, marking the most substantial concession to Iran thus far in ongoing negotiations. The United States has not yet officially commented on these developments.

The negotiations, which have been ongoing between Iran and Oman, controlling the northern and southern sides of the strait, respectively, have reportedly seen "major progress," according to Iranian sources. These sources suggest that shipping lanes will pass through Iranian waters. However, significant issues remain unresolved, including the precise definition of "control" and differing perspectives on cargo fees among Iran, Oman, and the U.S.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that the agreement's design includes commercial vessels passing through Iranian territorial waters during their transit in and out of the strait. He stated that a "basic consensus" has been reached with Oman and the deal is nearing finalization. Gharibabadi also asserted that the U.S. has signaled its readiness to fulfill commitments made in a memorandum signed in mid-June, a condition he linked to reopening the strait. He emphasized that no direct negotiations with the U.S. have occurred in recent days.