Iran ties Hormuz reopening to US concessions on several demands

Iran announced it is in the final stages of an agreement with Oman to establish new shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. However, the Islamic Republic reiterated its stance that the United States must first satisfy several demands before the strategic waterway can be reopened.

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an agreement with Oman on the strait was in its “final stages”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the deal with Oman is nearing completion. He emphasized that Iran will not reopen the strait unless the US meets Tehran's conditions, which include compensation for damages from past attacks, an end to sanctions, and the cessation of military threats. The agreement would outline new shipping lanes to be used once these conditions are met.

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Tehran would not reopen the channel unless the US met certain demands made by Tehran.

While direct talks between Iran and the US are not ongoing, messages are being exchanged through intermediaries. A US official indicated that a deal is close and could lead to the restoration of safe passage through the strait. This official linked any US action, such as lifting a naval blockade, to Iran's implementation of its commitments. The US has stated it is "low-keying" its approach to Iran, citing the country's economic struggles.

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We are only semi-negotiating with them. We are just watching Iran with its huge inflation and the fact they have no money.

The potential deal comes after a period of heightened tensions, including US and Israeli air strikes on Iran and a subsequent US naval blockade. Both sides had agreed to a ceasefire in June, but Iran claims the US violated it by reimposing the blockade in July. The United Arab Emirates also reported an Iranian attack on one of its ships.

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Once the deal is announced to restore commercial shipping without impediments, the United States will lift the blockade of Iranian ports