Iran’s Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026, that talks with Oman over future transit routes through the Strait of Hormuz are in their final stages, with the geographical coordinates of the proposed route agreed upon.

Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the discussions, ongoing for the past two months, aim to determine a safe transit route for commercial shipping through the strait. He added that a joint statement incorporating the main considerations and points of agreement is in the final stage of review and drafting, contingent on no obstruction from third parties.

The announcement comes amid a near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz enforced by Iran after both Tehran and Washington ended a June 17 memorandum of understanding and resumed military strikes linked to the conflict that began when the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.

While US officials, including President Donald Trump, have expressed that Tehran is eager for a deal to reopen the strait, they have also stated they would not accept any arrangement that leaves Iran in control of the waterway. Baghaei emphasized that despite the understanding with Oman, the strait cannot yet be considered secure for transit due to ongoing US naval blockades and aggressive actions against Iran.

Simultaneously, US Central Command (CENTCOM), responsible for military operations in the Middle East, reported redirecting 48 commercial vessels, disabling two, and boarding two as part of its blockade against the Iranian navy.

These developments highlight the complex and tense situation surrounding one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints.

Sources