Iran and Oman are drawing closer to an agreement on managing the Strait of Hormuz, Bloomberg reported on Saturday, adding that the two sides are reaching a deal on routes through the strategic waterway.
The maritime chart is part of a broader agreement to regulate traffic through the strait. It serves as an independent arrangement between Iran and Oman that will protect their sovereignty and ensure safe passage for ships.
Diplomatic Negotiations
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei outlined the framework of the agreement in comments reported by the Defa Press agency. He said the talks went well despite obstacles created by the American side.
The Iranian state news agency did not specify whether transit fees would be charged to ships or what security measures would be established, but reported that another round of talks will take place.
United States Position and Economic Pressure
The strait has proven to be the most difficult obstacle to ending the war between the United States and Iran, which has lasted nearly six months.
The United States did not take part in these negotiations. Washington has consistently stated recently that it will not accept an agreement that does not unconditionally restore free navigation in the strait.
Uncertainty over the full restoration of free navigation has kept oil prices high, with Brent crude rising 6 percent in recent days. Dozens of recorded attacks on ships have also fueled uncertainty, leaving 17 sailors dead.
Economic Warfare and Territorial Claims
The United States is also using economic warfare to pressure Iran. Donald Trump said on Friday that Washington plans to hit the Iranian economy hard, adding in comments to Fox that he does not care whether the war ends before the November midterm elections.
On the same day, the American president said he would declare the Strait of Hormuz United States territory very soon, although how he would carry out that promise remains unknown. Iranian officials responded to Trump by stating that the Strait of Hormuz was, is, and will remain Iranian.
