Proposed Hormuz Deal Grants Iran Control Over Gulf Shipping

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that negotiations have reached fundamental understandings, with proposed arrangements requiring commercial ships to traverse Iranian territorial waters. Tehran is currently pushing for transit fees between 5% and 7% of cargo value, while Omani mediators suggest a lower 3% rate. Washington, meanwhile, maintains that any such payments must remain strictly voluntary to avoid granting Iran formal control over the energy corridor.

The proposal faces substantial hurdles, as regional officials and Iranian sources caution that critical details remain unresolved. Gulf negotiators are demanding that regional states supervise ship inspections to prevent Tehran from exercising unilateral authority. Despite President Donald Trump’s assertions that a deal is imminent, U.S. officials have consistently stated they would not accept Iranian dominance over the strait. The conflict, which began in February, has strained U.S. military resources, with reports indicating a depletion of long-range precision missile stockpiles. With midterm elections approaching, the administration faces mounting pressure to secure a resolution, though the fragile nature of the talks leaves the potential agreement susceptible to rapid collapse.