Oman and Iran Near Agreement on Strait of Hormuz Route, Yet Full Reopening Remains Conditional

Oman announced that constructive talks with Iran are advancing toward securing a shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran, however, cautioned that any agreement would not instantly restore the critical maritime passage.

Both parties indicated on Saturday that negotiations are making headway, although a concrete timetable for finalizing an agreement remains uncertain. Oman’s foreign ministry further cautioned against attacks on shipping that could jeopardize progress.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that negotiations are entering their final stages, yet the reopening of the strait remains “subject to additional conditions”.

Tehran has effectively blockaded the waterway, which carries roughly one‑fifth of global oil and natural gas, after attacks by the United States and Israel began in February.

Recent discussions have centered on a potential agreement between Iran and Oman to establish a new route through the strait, joint responsibility for which is expected to facilitate the resumption of shipping activity.

Araghchi added that a full reopening of the typically busy maritime corridor hinges on several additional conditions, a point he only briefly addressed.

He noted that these conditions include Iranian compensation from the United States for alleged violations of a June‑signed agreement aimed at halting hostilities and advancing peace talks.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) collapsed swiftly, and diplomatic talks stalled, with reciprocal attacks resuming days after its signing.

Separately, Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, Iran’s security chief, told the semi‑official news agency Tasnim that the Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until the United States alters its behaviour.

He outlined six Iranian demands the United States must meet, among them a cessation of threats against Iran, removal of the naval blockade on Iranian ports, and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.

In addition, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea ports have been blocked by Yemen’s Iran‑backed Houthi movement since July 20.

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