Will It Change the Persian Gulf? A New Deal Is Taking Shape on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran

Iran and Oman have reached an agreement on regulating vessel traffic in the Strait of Hormuz: those entering the Gulf will pass through Iran's territorial waters, and those exiting will use a route closer to Oman. Iran conditions the resumption of traffic on American steps, including ending the naval blockade and addressing sanctions. Washington draws a red line against Iranian control of the strait and demands free passage without fees.

According to reports in the American media, Iran and Oman have reached an agreement regarding the regulation of vessel traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Under the emerging outline, vessels entering the Persian Gulf will pass through a route in Iran's territorial waters, while vessels exiting will use a route closer to Oman. An Iranian official claimed that contacts are also underway regarding the establishment of a joint coordination center. It was also reported that Iran continues to tie the return of traffic in the strait to steps by the United States, including ending the American naval blockade on its ports, addressing sanctions, and resuming discussions on frozen Iranian assets. On the other hand, Washington draws a red line against the possibility that Iran will gain effective control of the strait. An American official clarified that any temporary route must be open to passage without permits or fees, as the United States views the strait as an international waterway that no country is allowed to control.