U.S., Iran, Oman Near Interim Deal to Reopen Strait of Hormuz Amid Ceasefire Efforts

The United States, Iran, and Oman are reportedly close to reaching an interim agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Washington targeting a Wednesday announcement, according to an Axios report citing regional sources and a U.S. official. The proposed deal is intended to restore a U.S.-Iran ceasefire and revive negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program.

Despite the reported progress, Iranian officials have pushed back on claims that an agreement is imminent. Iranian media said any decision to reopen the strategic waterway will remain on hold as long as the United States continues issuing military threats. Tehran also maintained that its discussions with Oman are focused solely on the Strait of Hormuz, contradicting U.S. statements about broader negotiations.

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and advance Iran’s denuclearization was “imminent.” However, he also warned that Iran faced a “last chance” to accept an agreement, adding to the mixed signals surrounding the diplomatic process.

The latest developments follow signs of easing tensions after Trump revealed he had canceled a planned large-scale strike on Iran over the weekend. Even so, uncertainty remains after the U.S. and Iran experienced some of their most intense clashes since the conflict began in February, with a June ceasefire largely breaking down.

The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of the dispute because of its critical role in global energy markets. Before the conflict escalated, the narrow waterway handled roughly 20% of the world’s oil shipments. Iran has effectively disrupted maritime traffic through missile and drone attacks, naval mines, and armed patrol boats, while also asserting authority over the passage. The United States has opposed any attempt by Tehran to impose transit fees or restrict international shipping.

Any agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could help stabilize global oil supplies and reduce volatility in energy markets. However, conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran indicate that significant diplomatic hurdles remain before a final deal is reached.