Report: Iran and Oman Agree on Temporary Opening of Strait of Hormuz

Iran and Oman have reached a framework agreement on the temporary opening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, as reported by MS NOW, citing two diplomats. The plan aims to reduce tensions and lay the groundwork for a ceasefire and the resumption of nuclear talks. Vessels will enter via an Iran-controlled route and exit via an Oman-controlled route, with no transit fees. The US has clarified it will only support free passage.

Iran and Oman have reached a framework agreement on the temporary opening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, as reported today (Friday) on the MS NOW website, citing two diplomats in the Middle East. According to the report, the plan is intended to reduce tensions over control of the strategic waterway and lay the groundwork for a ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. An Iranian government source told the network that commercial vessels would be able to enter the Persian Gulf via a route under Iran's control and exit via a route under Oman's control, and that the agreement does not include charging transit fees. The two diplomats declined to elaborate on issues that remain unresolved. The move is defined as temporary and is intended to serve as a basis for a broader arrangement. A Gulf government source said the Gulf Cooperation Council expressed support for the understandings, and that the UN's International Maritime Organization and the United States are expected to be involved in the official announcement. A US official clarified that Washington would support the move only if free and uninterrupted passage is guaranteed. The understandings come after weeks of tensions, during which Iran partially restricted maritime traffic, while the US renewed strikes on Iran. The White House presents the contacts as diplomatic progress but insists on the principle of free passage. The arrangement may reduce the risk of further conflict around the strait, through which a significant amount of global oil trade passes.