Qatar says Hormuz agreement crucial for US-Iran talks to resume

Qatar's foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed Al Ansari, has stated that an agreement between Iran and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for the resumption of talks aimed at ending the Iran war. The two coastal nations, which share the waterway, have been engaged in discussions regarding the future of navigation through the strategic passage.

Tehran has confirmed that the geographical coordinates of the route have been agreed upon by both parties. Qatar is eagerly awaiting the final agreement between Oman and Iran, as it would facilitate the return to the framework of negotiations. The Qatari spokesperson emphasized that the agreement over the Strait of Hormuz would significantly ease the resumption of discussions between the United States and Iran.

In June, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Iran and Oman, but it was later deemed ineffective due to disagreements on managing the strait. Iran's top negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, recently reiterated that the waterway will not be opened until the United States fulfills Tehran's demands, including lifting a naval blockade.

On Monday, Iran reported that negotiations were progressing in a serious manner, with views being exchanged on the text of a joint statement. Iran has been imposing requirements for vessels to request permission and pay transit service fees, a demand that has been opposed by the United States and several regional countries. In response, the United States' former President, Donald Trump, threatened to bomb Oman if it interferes with a deal on Hormuz and called for Tehran to surrender in a conflict that has become a mounting political burden at home.