Iran and Oman reach understanding to reopen Strait of Hormuz, say sources

Senior sources told Al Arabiya that indirect communications between the United States and Iran have entered their final stage, amid significant progress in regional efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume maritime navigation.

According to the sources, the talks between Washington and Tehran are being conducted through intermediaries, alongside an understanding between Iran and Oman on the main outlines of a proposed agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The sources noted that an official announcement could be made in the coming days, though the deal still requires approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

The sources also said that Pakistani officials will brief Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman on the latest developments in the negotiations and ongoing efforts, as part of regional coordination to support understandings aimed at reopening the strait and ensuring maritime security in the area.

The proposed agreement, according to the sources, would last for 60 days and is intended to break the current deadlock, resume shipping, and launch technical negotiations among the concerned parties.

The sources added that the agreement does not include any transit or service fees for ships. Incoming vessels to the Strait of Hormuz would use the channel closest to Iran, while outgoing ships would use the channel nearest to Oman.

The sources confirmed that once the agreement is approved, the parties will revert to the previous memorandum of understanding, activating its Article 5. They also indicated that regional parties may participate in mine clearance and the implementation of technical measures to ensure safe navigation.

In related diplomatic moves, the sources revealed an expected visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, at the end of this week or early next week, noting that he recently held two phone calls with Pakistan's army chief.