Iran and Oman Draft Strait of Hormuz Transit Agreement

The Government of Iran is finalizing a draft agreement with the Government of Oman to regulate maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal, currently under review by the Iranian parliament, would ban vessels linked to the United States, Israel, and other states deemed hostile, as well as ships associated with actions against the "Axis of Resistance." Iranian officials indicated that the finalization of the deal may depend on the United States lifting its blockade of Iranian ports.

While the diplomatic process continues, regional conflict has intensified in Yemen. Houthi rebels launched ballistic missiles and drones against Saudi-backed government forces in Marib and Hadramaut, resulting in 30 to 45 deaths and damaging critical oil and gas fields. The Houthis also expanded their maritime strategy in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, striking the Saudi oil tankers Wafa and Daisy to restrict Saudi oil shipments.

In response to the regional instability, President Donald Trump stated his preference for a diplomatic solution to avoid casualties, though he maintained that Iran cannot possess a nuclear weapon. Vice President JD Vance tempered these expectations, warning that negotiations with Iran would be a complex and time-consuming process.