Iran-Oman Talks Could Shift Control of Strait Of Hormuz

An evolving agreement between Iran and Oman may grant Tehran unprecedented control over the Strait of Hormuz. The details of the deal, yet to be finalized, suggest joint management of the strait’s traffic, potentially allowing Iran to dictate which ships can enter the Gulf.

Discussions about outbound traffic control and Iran’s role remain unresolved. A new transit route through the strait has reportedly been agreed upon. If implemented, this would challenge the previous Trump administration’s stance that Iran cannot control access to this critical maritime corridor.

Seeking to de-escalate a contentious six-month conflict, President Trump appears eager to leverage the momentum from Iran-Oman discussions to pursue broader nuclear negotiations with Tehran. This would represent a significant shift in regional dynamics, recalibrating power in Tehran’s favor.

“It seems like the agreement will enable Iran to control Strait of Hormuz traffic,” said Mona Yacoubian of the Middle East program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Should the U.S. support the terms set by Iran and Oman, it might trigger another 60-day period for U.S.-Iran peace talks, as initially outlined in a memorandum of understanding that faltered, reigniting hostilities.

Developments around Iran-Oman talks are unfolding quickly, with a potential deal by Friday. However, reopening the strait won’t be immediate. The closure has escalated fuel prices, given its role as a conduit for a fifth of global oil and natural gas supplies.

The precise terms of how Iran and Oman will manage the strait are yet to be defined.

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