Iran says it is close to finalising an agreement with Oman on a designated shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, but any full reopening of the strategic waterway will depend on the United States ending its naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the geographical coordinates of the proposed route had been agreed and that Tehran and Muscat were finalising a joint statement. However, he stressed that the arrangement would not automatically make Hormuz safe for all vessels while US military restrictions remain in place.
The developments come amid continued security risks in and around the strait. A tanker captain reported hearing two explosions while sailing near Oman, although the vessel and crew remained safe.
Before the war, the Strait of Hormuz carried roughly one-fifth of global oil and LNG exports. Disruption has contributed to repeated price increases and increased pressure on governments and energy markets.
Iran has insisted that ships use a route close to its coast, while some vessels have chosen a southern route near Oman. Tehran also wants greater control over shipping through the strait and has discussed charging transit fees, demands Washington is expected to oppose.
US officials say diplomacy with Iran remains difficult and could take time. Tehran, however, continues to deny that direct negotiations with Washington are currently taking place.
