The United States, Iran, and Oman are nearing an interim agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with an announcement expected on Wednesday, according to two regional sources and a U.S. official. The negotiations have been ongoing for several weeks and aim to resume the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran while restarting discussions regarding a nuclear deal.
President Trump decided on Saturday not to proceed with threats of a significant bombing campaign to allow more time for diplomatic efforts. However, if a deal is not reached soon, Trump may authorize military strikes.
The proposed agreement would grant Iran greater control over shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, which it did not have prior to the conflict. The deal includes a 60-day temporary arrangement between Oman and Iran, which could be extended. Under this arrangement: - All inbound ships would use a northern lane through Iranian waters. - All outbound ships would use a southern lane through Omani waters, coordinated with Iran. - No tolls or fees would be charged during this period. - The parties would work to clear naval mines from the median lane of the strait within 30 days. - Once cleared, the median lane would be used for both inbound and outbound traffic under a future permanent arrangement.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, the White House, Oman, and regional mediators previously believed they had a deal with Iran three weeks ago, but Iran resumed attacks on ships, leading to two weeks of fighting. In addition to Oman and Iran, officials from Qatar, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia have been involved in mediation efforts. Recent discussions included U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi. Araghchi reportedly agreed in principle over the weekend but required approval from Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and the Supreme National Security Council. A U.S. official indicated that Iranian leadership completed its approval process on Tuesday.