FT: US may ease Iran sanctions if Hormuz strait deal reached
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
The U.S. is prepared to ease sanctions on Iranian oil exports and lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports if Tehran and Muscat agree on terms for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the Financial Times reported, citing sources briefed on the talks. The deal, still requiring final approval from Iran’s supreme leadership, would mark a significant departure from Washington’s initial military objectives. The reported offer has already drawn warnings of domestic pushback against the Trump administration.
The Strait Mechanism
Under the proposed deal, ships would enter the Strait of Hormuz through Iranian waters and exit primarily through Omani waters, according to FT sources. Iran would first send vessels, including oil tankers, through the waterway to verify it is free of mines before opening it to wider traffic. During the initial temporary phase, no transit fees would be charged, though Tehran insists on eventually collecting service fees — a demand Gulf states have rejected.
U.S. Concessions
As its part of the bargain, Washington would lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports and ease sanctions on Iran’s oil exports, sources told the Financial Times. The shift, described as “so clearly far” from President Donald Trump’s original military objectives, is expected to trigger a domestic backlash. FT reports the offer almost certainly will face negative political reaction in the U.S., where hardline critics oppose any sanctions relief for Iran.
Outstanding Conditions
The entire framework still requires approval from Iran’s supreme leadership, with no timeline given for a decision. Oman has proposed an alternative funding model for strait security, inspired by the Malacca Strait arrangements, where non-commercial entities make voluntary contributions for safe passage and environmental protection. Negotiations continue as the parties try to resolve the fee dispute and secure buy-in from Tehran.
What's Next
The deal’s fate now hinges on a final decision by Iran’s supreme leader, while negotiators seek a compromise on transit fees. Even if approved, the arrangement risks igniting political controversy in Washington and could be derailed by renewed military tensions in the Gulf.
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FT: US may ease Iran sanctions if Hormuz strait deal reached
