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 alleged 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 freeing Iranian assets.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, described as a relative moderate, stated that now is the best time for an agreement, emphasizing national cohesion and strength, and describing Iran as "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.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) condemned what it described as an Iranian missile attack on a vessel linked to its state oil company ADNOC as it passed through the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of "acts of piracy." State news agency WAM reported the missile strike early on Saturday local time but said the situation was under control.

It has been 53 days since the ceasefire between the United States and Iran was signed and 11 days since strikes resumed.

Sources