Iran and Oman reach framework agreement to temporarily reopen Strait of Hormuz
Iran and Oman have reached a framework agreement to temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to resume commercial traffic through the vital energy chokepoint by establishing separate shipping lanes. Two Middle Eastern diplomats familiar with the negotiations confirmed the development to Arutz Sheva. An Iranian official involved in the talks stated that under the proposal, commercial vessels would enter the Persian Gulf via an Iranian-monitored route and exit through a lane managed by Oman. The official noted that the temporary agreement would not include transit tolls, a condition Iran had previously sought. The official added that the agreement is intended to pave the way for a new ceasefire between Washington and Tehran and the resumption of nuclear negotiations, which began in mid-June but stalled following tit-for-tat attacks and the death of four US service members in Jordan. The official stated that the US and the International Maritime Organization would participate in the formal announcement of the deal. A second official from a Gulf Cooperation Council state confirmed that GCC members have agreed to the compromise. However, the timing for a public announcement remains unclear, and final US support depends on the definitive text. An unnamed US official stated that Washington would only support a short-term agreement if it guarantees unhindered passage, meaning no permits, licenses, tolls, or fees would be required. The US official emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway and no party has control over the routes or the right to regulate passage. President Donald Trump has previously opposed any agreement that would increase Iranian authority over the passage. He has occasionally suggested that the US should charge fees to passing vessels, though such a policy has not been implemented. On Thursday, President Trump stated in the Oval Office that the Strait is "pretty much open right now," while adding that the US has maintained a blockade. He indicated that an official announcement regarding the status of the Strait may be released soon. On Wednesday, the President said in Nevada that US forces are delivering "hard hits" to Iran, but his primary goal remains a diplomatic solution. Trump stated he prefers a deal because he "doesn't want people killed," while reiterating that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons. On Tuesday, in an interview with Fox News, Trump confirmed ongoing communication with Tehran and warned that if international shipping lanes remain blocked, the US will take further military action. He stated the Strait would open "very soon" or Iran would face severe attacks. Trump also claimed the two sides are having good discussions—though Iranian officials have denied such contacts—and added that he has "plenty of time" to continue negotiations.