Iran vies for expanded control over Strait of Hormuz in possible deal with Oman – report

Iran and Oman are reportedly nearing an agreement to reopen shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, which could grant Iran expanded control over previously international waters. According to US and Iranian officials cited by The New York Times, the proposed deal would establish Iranian and Omani channels for ships entering and leaving the Persian Gulf, with a "service fee" to be split between the two nations. However, a US official disputed Iran's account, stating there would be no tolls and any new routes would be "temporary."

US President Donald Trump criticized Iran's leadership as “unbelievably duplicitous” regarding the status of US-Iran negotiations, which he claimed had been renewed. He also asserted that the Strait of Hormuz is “already completely controlled by the United States Navy.”

Conversely, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei denied any ongoing or planned talks with the US, though he confirmed progress in discussions with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz.