Iran Says Hormuz Strait Deal Close, US Must Meet Commitments Before Reopening

Iran is currently negotiating a deal with Oman to establish new arrangements for managing traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran asserting that a full reopening of the critical waterway is contingent upon the United States fulfilling its commitments and ending its naval blockade. The proposed framework, which Iranian state media describes as a new security model, outlines that vessels would enter the Persian Gulf via Iranian-controlled waters and exit through Omani-controlled routes. Discussions reportedly include the implementation details and potential "service fees" to be shared between Iran and Oman, though the US has expressed opposition to such charges.

The Strait of Hormuz has been largely disrupted for international shipping since February 28, 2026, following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, which led Iran to impose restrictions and conduct attacks on merchant vessels. This disruption significantly impacted global oil prices. Although a brief reopening occurred in April 2026, it was quickly rescinded after the US refused to lift its naval blockade. Despite a recent report from senior US officials indicating the signing of a memorandum of understanding to end the near four-month conflict and gradually ramp up shipping, Iran continues to emphasize that any full return to normal traffic through the strait necessitates the lifting of US sanctions and a withdrawal of American forces from the region.

While US President Donald Trump has suggested that a broader deal to reopen the strait could be announced soon, Iranian officials maintain that the ongoing talks with Oman are primarily focused on regulating vessel movement and navigation, not a complete return to the Strait's pre-conflict status as an open international waterway. The situation remains volatile, as evidenced by an oil tanker reporting explosions in the Strait on August 6, 2026, highlighting the continued risks for maritime activity in the area.