Iran says Oman talks on new Hormuz route near completion

Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Telegram that talks with Oman over a new maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz are "on the way to being finalised," describing the negotiations as entering their final stages.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei told state television that Tehran and Muscat are close to an agreement on a route that would be acceptable to both sides and protect their sovereign rights and security interests. > "We are now going to reach an understanding on a route acceptable to both sides – neither the northern route nor the southern route – but one that respects the sovereign rights of both sides and safeguards our national interests and security," Baghaei said.

Oman has not yet commented on the discussions. The proposed corridor would run through waters bordering both Iran and Oman, a strategic passage that carries about 20 percent of global oil shipments. Details of the new route have not been disclosed, and Iran maintains control over the strait following the outbreak of hostilities earlier this year.

Baghaei added that the prospective agreement is unrelated to whether the strait is reopened or remains closed, blaming the United States for the closure and accusing Washington of breaching its commitments.

In related developments, U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States and Israel would suspend new attacks on Iran if a rapid deal to end the conflict is reached, stating the agreement should include the "immediate, complete, and total opening of the Hormuz Strait" and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged Trump to prioritise dialogue and reduce escalation.

Iranian officials, including parliament security commission spokesman Hassam Ghashghavi, indicated that diplomatic exchanges continue and an Iranian delegation may return to Muscat as part of ongoing mediation efforts.