US expects deal soon to reopen Strait of Hormuz, official confirms

The United States anticipates a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping will be finalized soon, according to a US official. Negotiations involving Iran, the US, and Oman are reportedly progressing towards an agreement.

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There is progress between Oman and Iran on the Strait, and we expect a deal soon.

Axios reported Friday evening, citing a diplomat from a mediating country, that Iran's Supreme National Security Council is expected to approve a deal shortly. This agreement would allow for the joint oversight of the Strait of Hormuz with Oman.

A US official corroborated the report to Reuters, stating, "There is progress between Oman and Iran on the Strait, and we expect a deal soon." The official added that once the agreement to restore unimpeded commercial shipping is announced, the United States will lift its blockade of Iranian ports.

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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.

However, the US official cautioned that American actions would remain "performance-based and tied to Iran’s implementation of its commitments." Earlier in the week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio had indicated progress in the talks, with the White House reportedly aiming for a deal announcement as early as Wednesday.

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As always, US actions will continue to be performance-based and tied to Iran’s implementation of its commitments.