By excluding American and Israeli ships, as well as by imposing “tolls” on “hostile” states, Tehran is attempting to control the day after in the Strait of Hormuz. The proposed draft agreement between Iran and Oman for the management of the critical sea route, which is already being examined by the Iranian parliament, complicates expectations for an immediate resumption of energy flows.
According to the Fars news agency, the draft provides for Iranian control upon the entry of ships, joint supervision with Oman upon exit through a “central corridor,” as well as strict charges for environmental costs.
Although in the previous period both sides hinted that an agreement was imminent, with Donald Trump stating that the negotiations are going “well,” the gap remains. Washington categorically rejects the imposition of transit fees, demanding full return to the pre-war regime of free navigation. On the other hand, Iran sets as a non-negotiable precondition the lifting of the American naval blockade, combined with the easing of oil sanctions and the release of funds.
As American analysts point out, instead of mutual concessions, an escalation of demands is being recorded. Nevertheless, a possible de-escalation of the situation around Hormuz would not merely relieve the global economy, but could open the way for broader geopolitical dialogue, including the Iranian nuclear program.
