Iran Says Deal with Oman on Hormuz Shipping Route in Final Stages

Iran announced it has reached an agreement with Oman on a proposed shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, a potential step toward reopening the critical waterway for energy supplies. A foreign ministry spokesman said the agreement with Oman is in its final stages but declined to provide details. Tehran and Muscat have been drafting a joint statement, according to sources. Under the plan, Iran would gain control over ships entering the Gulf via the strait, effectively ratifying Tehran's authority over the waterway. Talks are continuing, and finalization depends on third parties not obstructing the deal and on defining the route's details.