A confidential draft agreement under discussion between Iran and Oman could give Iran authority over ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime chokepoint for global energy trade, sources familiar with the talks revealed. This arrangement would mark a significant concession to Tehran amid ongoing regional tensions.
Despite claims by U.S. officials suggesting a swift resolution, multiple insiders emphasized that crucial details remain unsettled, especially regarding the extent and nature of Iranian control. Gulf states involved in negotiations insist that any ship inspections must include regional oversight and that levying fees on vessels should remain voluntary.
The draft reportedly grants Iran oversight over vessels entering the Gulf, but disagreement persists over Iran's authority over ships exiting the waterway. This unresolved issue continues to complicate progress. While Tehran and Oman negotiate directly, no formal dialogue exists between Iran and Washington, which has firmly opposed any deal that cedes control of this vital maritime passage to Iran.
The U.S. administration, including President Donald Trump, has publicly indicated an imminent breakthrough might end ongoing hostilities sparked earlier this year, despite widespread opposition among U.S. voters to the conflict. However, sources caution that premature announcements overlook the remaining complexities of the deal.
Amid these developments, regional security concerns heightened when the Iran-aligned Houthi group in Yemen launched an attack on a Saudi-flagged tanker in the Red Sea, briefly pushing oil prices upward. While crude prices retreated recently following the suspension of planned U.S. attacks on Iran, the risk to maritime traffic in key waterways remains acute.
Oman controls the opposite shore of the Strait of Hormuz and is facilitating the talks with Iran. Earlier, Tehran rejected an Omani proposal considered insufficient in granting Iranian influence. Sources indicate ongoing negotiations seek a balance that satisfies Tehran’s demands while accommodating Gulf states’ security concerns.
President Trump acknowledged recent intense negotiations and expressed optimism about reopening the strait. He warned, however, that abandonment of the deal could provoke a strong U.S. response. Iranian officials remain cautious, suggesting that concluding a final agreement may take time given the unresolved aspects.