Proposed Iran-Oman pact could grant Tehran control of Hormuz transit

The deal envisions Iran managing inbound maritime traffic, though negotiators remain deadlocked over the scope of Iranian oversight for outbound vessels. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that fundamental understandings have been reached, noting that transit routes are being redesigned to pass through Iranian territorial waters. Tehran is reportedly pushing for cargo fees ranging from 5% to 7%, while Omani negotiators have suggested a lower threshold of 3%. U.S. officials maintain they will not accept any arrangement that grants Iran functional control over the passage, yet the White House faces mounting domestic pressure to conclude a conflict that has depleted military munitions and drained public support.

While President Donald Trump has characterized the negotiations as progressing favorably, regional sources emphasize that the framework remains fragile. The potential for a complete collapse persists, as Iranian officials warn that a single contradictory statement from Washington could nullify months of back-channel diplomacy. Even if fees are categorized as voluntary, the persistent threat of maritime interdiction suggests that commercial shippers may have little choice but to comply with Iranian demands to ensure safe passage. The United Nations has issued a general endorsement for a negotiated settlement but confirmed it lacks first-hand information regarding the specific terms currently under discussion.