Iran-Oman Deal Could Give Tehran Control over Hormuz Shipping

A proposed agreement between Iran and Oman could give Tehran control over ships entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, a senior Iranian source and two regional officials told Reuters.

The arrangement would amount to one of the biggest concessions to Iran during its five-month war with the United States.

The talks concern the northern and southern shipping channels controlled by Iran and Oman. Tehran has reported significant progress and wants ships traveling in both directions to pass through Iranian territorial waters.

The form of oversight, the level of any fees and Iran’s authority over vessels leaving the Gulf remain unresolved.

According to the Iranian source, Tehran is seeking fees equivalent to 5%–7% of the value of cargoes. Oman is discussing a rate of about 3%, while Washington opposes any fees.

Iran has also warned Gulf states that any new US attack would trigger strikes on energy infrastructure across the region. President Donald Trump has said he prefers a diplomatic solution, but sources rejected his claim that an agreement to reopen the strait was imminent.

(Reuters, bak)