A proposed agreement between Iran and Oman regarding shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could significantly ease US pressure on Tehran, according to the Financial Times. Initially, Iran would route oil tankers and other vessels through an agreed corridor while naval mines are cleared from the rest of the strait, after which the waterway would reopen to all shipping. This deal, if finalized, could lead to the US lifting its naval blockade on Iranian ports and reinstating a waiver allowing Iran to sell oil.
Iran is also pushing to introduce transit fees for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz. Oman, however, has proposed a system of free passage, similar to the Strait of Malacca, with voluntary contributions for maritime security and environmental protection. Discussions are ongoing between Iran and Oman to finalize the details of this proposed agreement.
Key aspects still under negotiation include the exact nature of Iranian control over inbound and outbound traffic, the fee structure (Iran seeks 5-7% of cargo value, Oman proposes 3%, while the US wants no fees), and the long-term role Iran would play. The US has previously stated it would not accept any arrangement granting Iran control over the vital waterway, yet a senior Iranian source and two regional officials indicate that a concession regarding some form of control has already been made.
