Iran Offers Partial Strait of Hormuz Access Amid U.S. Peace Talks

A source briefed by Tehran told Reuters that Iran may be willing to allow vessels to navigate freely through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz as part of ongoing ceasefire negotiations with the United States. The proposal marks a notable shift in Iran's stance following weeks of aggressive posturing over one of the world's most critical maritime corridors.

The offer comes in the aftermath of a conflict that has triggered the largest disruption to global oil and gas supplies in history. Since hostilities broke out on February 28, Iran has effectively blocked traffic through the strait, which facilitates roughly 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas trade. Hundreds of tankers and approximately 20,000 crew members have remained stranded inside the Gulf throughout the crisis.

A two-week ceasefire took effect on April 8, and President Donald Trump indicated this week that a resolution may be near. However, control over the Strait of Hormuz continues to be a central sticking point in diplomatic efforts. The narrow waterway, just 34 kilometers wide between Iran and Oman, connects the Persian Gulf to the Indian Ocean and serves as a vital artery for Middle Eastern energy exports and other essential commodities like fertilizers.

Under the reported proposal, Tehran would permit ships to pass through Omani territorial waters without interference. Nevertheless, key questions remain unanswered, including whether Iran would remove any mines potentially placed in the area and whether Israeli-linked vessels would also be granted safe passage. The deal is also conditional on Washington agreeing to meet Tehran's broader demands.

The proposal represents the first concrete sign that Iran may be stepping back from more provocative positions, which previously included plans to levy tolls on ships and assert sovereign control over the international waterway — moves widely condemned by the global shipping community as violations of established maritime law.