Iran: Deal with Oman on Strait of Hormuz ‘Very Close’; Reopening Passage Hinges on Broader Understanding

Welat TV – Erbil

Iran said on Saturday that it was “very close” to reaching an agreement with Oman on maritime arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz, but stressed that any agreement alone would not be sufficient to fully reopen the waterway to shipping.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran and Muscat were discussing a temporary maritime route through the strait pending the resolution of technical and legal issues related to establishing a permanent route. He said reopening the strait would require, in addition to an agreement with Oman, the fulfillment of other conditions, including compensation from the United States to Iran.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Bagher Zulqadar, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Tehran was demanding an end to US threats and attacks, the lifting of sanctions and the blockade, and the release of Iranian assets.

Oman confirmed that negotiations with Iran were taking place in a “positive and constructive atmosphere,” while urging all sides to avoid steps that could undermine the talks.

In a related development, the United Arab Emirates said a tanker operated by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) was attacked by a missile while transiting the strait. No injuries were reported.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency (UKMTO) also said another vessel caught fire after being struck by an unidentified projectile. The fire was later extinguished.

The developments come amid an ongoing dispute between Tehran and Washington over the conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil and gas trade.