Order in Hormuz: Iran's Oxygen and Trump's Mistake
An Iranian-Omani agreement on freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is nearing completion, with consensus on the geographic route. The temporary 60-day deal includes mine clearance and voluntary payments. Iran sees it as an economic lifeline, while Israel fears it diverts attention from the nuclear issue and weakens American deterrence. Prime Minister Netanyahu clarified that Israel will not consider itself bound by the agreement.
An Iranian-Omani agreement on freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is moving closer. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman announced agreement on the geographic route of shipping lanes, and a joint statement is in its final stages, provided that "third parties" do not interfere. The Iranian foreign minister speaks of a near agreement, but Tehran awaits approval from the leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Under the outline, vessels will enter the Gulf via the route on the Iranian side and exit via the Omani side, giving Iran control over incoming traffic. The agreement is set to last 60 days, during which mines will be cleared and talks on a permanent solution will continue. Iran will not receive the mandatory fee, but "voluntary" payments for insurance, environmental protection, or safety services may be made. Oman has a clear interest in the deal: preventing war, protecting trade routes, and maintaining its mediator status. For Iran, this is a lifeline: opening the strait will allow oil exports, bring in foreign currency, and ease economic pressure, without giving up its nuclear program. Israel fears the agreement diverts attention from the nuclear issue and weakens American deterrence. Prime Minister Netanyahu said: "With or without an agreement, we will do everything necessary to secure our future." The article criticizes Trump, who sees the agreement as an end point, while Iran sees it as a refreshment stop.