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, Iran has stated that reopening the route 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, and freeing 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 but did not assign blame. It described ongoing negotiations with Iran on shipping arrangements 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) earlier condemned what it called an Iranian attack on a carrier linked to its state oil company, ADNOC, accusing Tehran of "acts of piracy." State news agency WAM reported that the vessel was targeted by a missile early Saturday local time but that the situation was under control. No injuries were reported.

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

Sources