Iran and Oman Near Agreement to Reopen Strait of Hormuz with Iranian Control Demands

Saudi channel Al-Arabiya reports that an official announcement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz is expected within hours or by tomorrow at the latest, marking a breakthrough in talks between Iran and Oman. The two countries have reportedly reached an agreement to reopen the strategic waterway, which is vital for global oil shipments.

An Iranian senior official told Reuters that Iran demands full control over incoming maritime traffic through the strait, along with the ability to monitor and intervene in outgoing ship movements. This arrangement is part of the emerging political deal with Oman to regulate the passage. The official emphasized Tehran's firm stance, stating that Iran does not intend to change its position.

The proposed plan would have the exit route pass between Iran and Oman, with Oman granting final approval for outbound ships only after prior notification to Iranian authorities. This follows Iran's rejection in late July of Oman's proposal for equal division of transit routes, which Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said failed to meet Iran's security needs without long-term regional stability.

The developments come amid heightened regional tensions, including recent Iranian attacks on a U.S. ship and military base, to which the U.S. has not responded. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under these terms could significantly impact maritime security and regional power dynamics.