The United States and Iran are reportedly moving closer to a temporary agreement that could reduce hostilities and allow the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route.
Iranian officials said negotiations are in their final stages, while US President Donald Trump expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached as early as this week.
According to reports, Iran is seeking two major concessions as part of the proposed deal: the removal of the US naval blockade around its ports and limited control over parts of the Strait of Hormuz. These demands had previously been rejected by the Trump administration.
Under the proposed arrangement, commercial vessels would enter the Strait through a route managed by Iran and leave through another controlled by Oman. Ships using the passage could also be required to pay service charges to cover security and maritime operations.
If approved, the agreement would represent a significant shift from previous US policy, which opposed any Iranian control or fees in the strategic waterway. Before the conflict, the Strait of Hormuz functioned as an international shipping lane where vessels passed without paying tolls.
Economic analysts say reopening the Strait could help stabilise global energy markets, as roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply previously moved through the route. Increased oil exports could also help ease pressure on international fuel prices.
Speaking at an event in Las Vegas on Wednesday, President Trump said he preferred diplomacy over further military action.
“I would rather reach an agreement because I don’t want more people to die,” Trump said. He added that although the US had prepared for a major military operation, Iran had requested renewed talks before any further escalation.
Officials cautioned that any agreement would be temporary and would still require approval from Iran’s Supreme Leader. They also believe it could create an opportunity for broader discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme.
Despite the reported progress, continued instability across the Middle East remains a major concern.
Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for missile attacks targeting Saudi oil tankers on Wednesday, raising fears of renewed fighting in Yemen.
At the same time, tensions between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement have increased after Israel carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon, accusing Hezbollah of violating an existing ceasefire.
Diplomats warn that any further escalation in the region could undermine the ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
