Oman Mediates 60-Day Hormuz Transit Deal as US-Iran War Risks Months-Long Deadlock
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The US-Iran war has slid into deadlock after the collapse of a June 17 truce, as Tehran’s near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Washington’s naval blockade disrupt global energy flows. Oman is brokering talks for a 60-day safe transit corridor, even as the US warns of ‘decapitation’ while easing sanctions on IRGC-linked airlines.
Maritime Blockade and Energy Disruption
Iran’s near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz since the resumption of fighting has disrupted oil and liquefied natural gas exports, driving up global energy prices. The US Central Command has redirected 48 commercial vessels, boarded two, and disabled two others as part of its naval blockade, which President Trump described as an unyielding “wall of steel.” Trump warned Iran that current negotiations are its “last chance before decapitation,” yet the US Treasury simultaneously removed sanctions on three IRGC-linked airlines, sending mixed signals about Washington’s intent.
The Omani Diplomatic Track
Indirect talks mediated by Oman have been underway for two months, focused on securing a temporary 60-day transit route utilizing both Iranian and Omani territorial waters. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed the Oman negotiations but denied any direct talks with the US. According to Negar Mortazavi of the Center for International Policy, the Trump administration’s threats are seen in Tehran as psychological pressure rather than an imminent strike, and the Omani-brokered pause lets Iran test US intentions without relinquishing its strategic position in the strait.
What's Next
The Omani-mediated negotiations are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with a potential temporary transit deal hanging on unresolved sovereignty disputes. Analysts warn that the deadlock could persist for months, fueled by Iran’s calculation that US pressure may ease ahead of the November midterm elections.
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Oman Mediates 60-Day Hormuz Transit Deal as US-Iran War Risks Months-Long Deadlock
