US, Iran Near Deal to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

The United States and Iran appear to be nearing an agreement that would allow commercial shipping to resume more fully through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy transit routes. Officials from Iran and Oman said negotiations had entered their final stages, while President Donald Trump said a deal could be reached soon. Diplomats cautioned, however, that several details remain under negotiation, including the management of vessel movements, inspection procedures and financial arrangements tied to maritime services.

According to officials and diplomatic sources, the proposed arrangement would establish separate inbound and outbound shipping lanes, with Iran overseeing vessels entering the Persian Gulf and Oman coordinating outbound traffic. One of the principal sticking points remains whether Iran would collect transit-related fees or whether commercial vessels would continue to move without additional charges. The United States has maintained that freedom of navigation must be preserved, while Iran has sought recognition of a greater role in managing maritime traffic following months of conflict and disruption in the region.