Officials say Iran and Oman are making progress toward a deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz under Tehran and Muscat’s joint control.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his Qatari counterpart said that talks between Oman and Iran have resulted in “progress” towards reopening the Strait of Hormuz. According to officials speaking with The New York Times, the deal would allow ships to enter the Persian Gulf through the Iranian side of the Strait while using Omani territory to exit the Gulf.
The deal includes “service fees” or tolls for ships transiting the Strait. Muscat and Tehran will split the funds. Additionally, Tehran will have full control over inbound traffic while Iran and Oman will have joint control over outbound shipping.
On Monday, President Donald Trump said the Strait could be reopened by Tuesday. An Iranian official said Tehran was not basing negotiations on Trump’s threats.
“Trump has violated his commitments, and Iran is moving forward with its plan to establish arrangements in the Strait independently of US threats, and it will succeed.” The source added, “Iran does not shape its interests and priorities based on schedule or demands of Trump.”
An Iranian source speaking with Al-Jazeera explained to the outlet that the deal with Oman could reopen negotiations with the US. However, they added that several issues with Washington remain unresolved.
