Iran says close to Hormuz plan with Oman, but reopening depends on U.S.

Iran announced Wednesday that it has reached an agreement with Oman on a shipping route through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, with joint management plans nearing finalization. This development is seen as a step toward reopening the vital energy corridor, though Iranian officials emphasized that any full resumption of safe passage hinges on the United States lifting its naval blockade of Iran's ports.

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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.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stated that the geographical coordinates for the agreed route have been finalized. He indicated that a joint statement detailing the agreements is in the final drafting stage, provided "certain third parties do not obstruct the process." Baqaei cautioned, however, that even with an understanding between Iran and Oman, the strait's security remains compromised by U.S. actions, including its naval blockade and other "aggressive and threatening actions against Iran and its interests."

The continued risks were underscored by an incident Wednesday, where the captain of an oil tanker reported hearing two explosions while transiting the strait approximately nine nautical miles southeast of Kumzar, Oman. The crew and vessel were reported safe, according to Britain's maritime security agency UKMTO.

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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.

Before the recent conflict, the Strait of Hormuz handled about a fifth of the world's oil and LNG exports. Prices have fluctuated significantly since disputes over the waterway began. U.S. Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the complexities of diplomacy with Iran, describing the country's leadership as "fractured" and negotiations as potentially "messy" and time-consuming. Iran, which seeks to control the strait and potentially charge tolls, a move the U.S. would strongly oppose, has insisted ships use a route close to its coast, while many vessels opt for a southern route near Oman, sometimes facing threats.

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It's going to be messy and it's going to take some time to get there. The reality... is that number one, the Iranians are extraordinarily difficult people. Number two, they have a fractured system.