According to the US portal «Axios», the United States, Iran, and Oman are closing in on a transitional agreement to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping amid the ongoing Iran conflict. Citing one US government official and two sources from the Gulf region, «Axios» reported that Washington aims to finalize the arrangement.
Diplomatic Progress and Official Stances
US President Donald Trump told reporters that the crucial maritime corridor could reopen as early as Wednesday or the following day, pointing to notable progress in the negotiations. In a separate interview with Fox News, Trump described the ongoing talks as «very good». These developments follow signals from Tuesday, when US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and a spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Madschid al-Ansari, indicated that an announcement could be imminent. When questioned about potential fee collection, Bessent stated he anticipates free passage for commercial vessels.
Strait of Hormuz Control and Shipping Impacts
The proposed interim solution satisfies several Iranian demands, granting Tehran greater control over the vital chokepoint than it held prior to the outbreak of hostilities, according to «Axios». The White House and other US federal agencies have not yet issued an official statement regarding the reported terms. Meanwhile, maritime traffic in the Middle East remains heavily constrained by regional hostilities. Shipping data indicates an average of just 16 vessels traversed the Strait of Hormuz daily last week, a steep decline from the 60 to 140 daily transits recorded before US and Israeli airstrikes targeted Iran at the end of February.
Did you know?
Prior to the late February airstrikes conducted by the US and Israel, daily commercial transits through the Strait of Hormuz regularly reached up to 140 ships, serving as a primary global energy corridor.
Broader Maritime Disruptions in the Region
Beyond the Persian Gulf, commercial navigation through the Bab al-Mandab strait at the southern exit of the Red Sea faces continued disruption. The Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen has maintained threats and attacks directed at Saudi Arabia, further compounding logistical challenges for international shipping companies operating in the region, as reported by DPA.
Frequently Asked Questions
When might the Strait of Hormuz reopen?
According to statements from US President Donald Trump and reports by «Axios», a reopening of the crucial shipping lane could occur as early as Wednesday or the following day, pending the finalization of a transitional agreement between the US, Iran, and Oman.
How has daily shipping traffic changed in the Strait of Hormuz?
Branch services report that daily traffic dropped to an average of 16 ships last week, compared to a pre-conflict range of 60 to 140 daily transits before the US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran in late February.
What are the terms of the reported transition deal?
According to «Axios», the interim framework meets several of Iran’s demands and grants Tehran increased operational control over the strategic waterway compared to its position before the war.
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