Welcome to our live updates on developments in the Middle East.
U.S. officials, including former President Donald Trump, have indicated that a potential agreement concerning the Strait of Hormuz might be finalized today, with ongoing diplomatic initiatives possibly leading to a revival of discussions between the United States and Iran.
“It could happen either tomorrow or the day after,” President Trump stated to reporters last night, noting that “significant progress has been achieved.”
This sentiment was echoed by Iran, which reported that negotiations with Oman regarding the reopening of this vital shipping channel are advancing “positively.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent have also expressed optimism, confirming that strides have been made in the ongoing discussions.
However, the specifics of any potential agreement remain uncertain, as Iran has sought increased authority over the Strait of Hormuz, a route that previously facilitated approximately 20% of the global oil and gas supply before the onset of conflict. In contrast, the U.S. has firmly dismissed these demands. The strait has effectively been closed since February 28, leading to a surge in global energy prices.
Furthermore, a potential agreement does not necessarily ensure the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports from Iranian state media. A key demand from Tehran involves lifting the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports, with threats to maintain the closure of the strait if “the United States continues to pose threats to Iran.” Both nations have accused one another of violating a memorandum of understanding established in June, which lasted for only about a week before new tensions emerged in the Gulf region.
According to an “informed source” cited by Iran’s state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB),
“The potential agreement between Iran and Oman concerning vessel passage through the Strait of Hormuz is unrelated to the immediate reopening of the strait. The discussions on traffic arrangements are strictly between Iran and Oman and do not involve the United States. Should U.S. violations persist, the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed, even with an agreement between Iran and Oman. The opening of the strait hinges on a change in U.S. behavior and the rectification of its violations.”
