Middle East: Iran-Oman Strait of Hormuz deal near, Israeli soldiers killed in Lebanon

Iran's Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday that a deal with Oman regarding control over the Strait of Hormuz is in its "final stage" and expected soon, provided "certain parties do not obstruct this process." The ministry implied that U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously halted shipping through the vital waterway, might again interfere.

"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," Iran's Foreign Ministry said. Mediator Pakistan praised Oman's role, suggesting the deal would facilitate comprehensive peace negotiations between Iran and the U.S. The agreement could allow ships to travel through Iranian and Omani waters, paying fees for safe passage. Iran insists on controlling the passage, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil and gas typically flows, while the U.S. maintains that traffic must remain free and unimpeded.

Meanwhile, Israel reported that two soldiers were killed and four seriously injured in southern Lebanon when an improvised explosive device detonated during a house search near the village of Majdal Zoun. This incident followed Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon, which Israel described as a response to a "blatant violation" of a June ceasefire agreement by the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah. Lebanon's Health Ministry reported one person killed and 12 injured in those strikes.

Israeli and Lebanese diplomats are currently engaged in negotiations in Rome, Italy, to establish a longer-term peace agreement. Under the existing ceasefire, the Lebanese army is responsible for disarming Hezbollah, which operates independently of the government, and Israel is expected to withdraw its troops from Lebanese territory.

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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.