U.S. expects Strait of Hormuz deal soon as Sunni powers sign defense pact

The United States anticipates Iran and Oman will soon reach a deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping, according to a U.S. official cited by Reuters. Washington would lift its blockade of Iranian ports once the agreement is announced and Iran permits unimpeded passage for vessels. "There is progress between Oman and Iran on the strait, and we expect a deal soon," the official stated, emphasizing that U.S. actions would hinge on Tehran's adherence to the terms.

The strait, separating Iran and Oman, is crucial as it previously accommodated one-fifth of global oil consumption before the U.S. and Israel initiated the war on Iran on February 28. The conflict's disruptions, including attacks on vessels and Iran's collection of transit fees, have inflated energy prices and contributed to inflation.

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company reported that 15 of its vessels have been targeted in the strait since the war's onset, resulting in one death and 20 injuries. Regional security tensions escalated further as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey signed a collective defense pact in Mecca, stipulating that an armed assault against any of the nations would be considered an assault on all.