Media: Iran and Oman close to agreement on Strait of Hormuz, including payment

Iran and Oman are close to an agreement on the Strait of Hormuz, according to The New York Times, citing Iranian and American officials. The agreement provides for separate routes for inbound and outbound vessels, as well as a 'service fee', according to Iran. The US disputes the details, saying the routes will not require Iran's approval and will not include fees.

According to The New York Times, citing Iranian and American officials, Iran and Oman are nearing an agreement on the passage of ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement would have vessels entering the Persian Gulf follow a route under Iran's control, while those exiting would use a route close to Oman. Iranian sources claim the agreement includes a 'service fee' that would cover the environmental impact of shipping, vessel safety, and labor, with revenues split equally between Iran and Oman. However, an American official said the Iranian version is 'not accurate', emphasizing that the routes would not require Iran's approval and would not include transit fees. Thus, the parties differ in describing key terms, casting doubt on reaching a final deal. If concluded, the agreement could affect shipping in the strategically important strait, through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes.