Iran and Oman are reportedly "very close" to reaching an agreement on a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. However, the deal's reopening depends on several conditions, including compensation for what Tehran describes as US violations of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding.

Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, secretary of Iran's top national security body, outlined additional demands such as ending US threats and aggression against Iran and its regional allies, lifting sanctions and blockades on Iran, and releasing Iranian assets.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, considered a relative moderate, expressed optimism about the timing, stating, "There is cohesion, strength, and unity in the country, and as far as I know, Iran is considered victorious and powerful in this war."

Oman condemned repeated attacks on vessels transiting the strait without assigning blame and described ongoing negotiations with Iran as "positive and constructive."

A US official, speaking anonymously, indicated that Washington anticipates an imminent agreement between Iran and Oman, which border the strait, to allow the resumption of normal oil traffic.

Tensions remain high after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) condemned what it called an Iranian attack on a carrier linked to its state oil company ADNOC while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE accused Tehran of "acts of piracy."

State news agency WAM reported that a vessel from Abu Dhabi's ADNOC was targeted by a missile early Saturday local time, though the situation was said to be under control. No injuries were reported, and details about the tanker and cargo were not disclosed. The UAE ministry stated the attack violated a UN Security Council resolution on freedom of navigation and accused Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of responsibility.

As of Sunday, August 9th, 2026, it has been 53 days since the ceasefire between the United States and Iran was signed and 11 days since strikes resumed.

Sources