Hormuz traffic declines as Iran says Oman deal in 'final stages'

Iran has insisted that the United States fulfill its conditions before reopening the Strait of Hormuz. A spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry stated that the country will not reopen the strategic waterway until the U.S. lifts the blockade, pays compensation for the war damage, lifts economic sanctions, and releases Iran's frozen assets.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which typically transports about one-fifth of the world's oil trade, has been a significant consequence of the ongoing conflict. Iran is also engaged in separate negotiations with Oman regarding the possibility of a temporary shipping corridor through the strait. Meanwhile, Israel has declared the Christian-majority town of Taybeh in the occupied West Bank a closed military zone due to repeated settler attacks.

This decision aims to prevent Israeli settlers and non-residents from entering the town, which is surrounded by settlements and has faced arson, vandalism, and illegal intrusions. The Israeli military will detain suspects and disperse gatherings to maintain order, although Palestinian residents and journalists will be allowed unless deemed a threat by the soldiers.

The escalating violence in Taybeh has resulted in at least 87 Palestinian deaths in 2026, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Ramallah.