Iran says deal on Strait of Hormuz is close but is not enough to open the waterway

Iran and Oman are reportedly nearing an agreement on controlling the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran insists this deal alone is insufficient to fully reopen the vital waterway, according to Reuters. The United Arab Emirates reported that Iran had recently attacked a ship affiliated with the UAE's state oil company in the strait without any casualties, adding to tensions in the region.

The negotiations are seen as crucial for ending the ongoing war between Iran and the U.S., which began with attacks on February 28. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that while they are "very close" to an agreement, reopening the strait would depend on various conditions, including U.S. compensations to Iran. Omani officials condemned attacks on vessels transiting the strait, emphasizing the need for all parties to consider the interests of the negotiations.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed optimism about the potential agreement, citing unity and strength within Iran. In response to U.S. attacks, Iran has targeted U.S. bases in Gulf states and Jordan, as well as attacking ships in the strait, which carries a fifth of the world's oil and gas shipments. The UAE reported a vessel fire after being hit by an unknown projectile, but no environmental impact was reported.

While U.S. officials anticipate an agreement soon, Iran's Revolutionary Guards maintain that reopening the strait depends on Washington accepting Iran's conditions, separate from the Iran-Oman negotiations.