Hormuz talks postponed as Iran, Gulf states struggle to reopen vital oil route

A meeting between Iran and Gulf states in Oman to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz was postponed "in the interests of consensus," according to Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi. The talks aimed to establish a legal framework for restoring commercial traffic through the vital oil route, which remains below pre-war levels. Key discussion points included maps, shipping lanes, and a potential compromise on Iran's demand for voluntary payments for navigational safety, a softening from previous firm opposition to any new tolls. The United States, a critical player, was not expected to participate, with the Trump administration prioritizing nuclear talks with Iran. However, U.S. and regional officials privately acknowledge that a comprehensive agreement without eventual U.S. involvement is "extremely low." The ongoing disruptions and recent attacks on vessels, including one on Sunday, highlight the urgency of a resolution, especially as alternative routes like Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline face threats.