Iran-Oman talks to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Iran and Oman are in advanced negotiations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas trade that has been effectively shut by Iranian attacks since the war began in February 2026. The emerging agreement, as reported by regional officials, would have ships enter the Persian Gulf via an Iranian-controlled route and exit via an Omani-controlled route, with service fees charged. Any deal appears contingent on the United States lifting its naval blockade on Iran's ports. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have expressed optimism that a deal could be reached soon, though Rubio noted there is 'not finality yet.' Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said talks are in their final stages, and Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei confirmed progress in technical and political consultations. The talks come amid ongoing U.S. strikes on Iran, which President Donald Trump has paused to pursue diplomacy. The Strait of Hormuz carried about a fifth of the world's traded oil and gas before the war, and its closure has spiked fuel and fertilizer prices globally. The agreement would mark a strategic victory for Iran, which has sought to formalize its control over the waterway, while the U.S. has previously ruled out any deal giving Iran control. The situation remains fluid, with continued attacks on shipping and a U.S. blockade in effect.