Key facts
- A US official stated the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and under US Navy control.
- The US conducted a covert mine-clearing operation in the strait since April.
- Shipping traffic is expected to increase following the operation.
- US officials reported progress in talks between Oman and Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iran has dismissed claims of US control and stated the strait will remain closed until its demands are met.
A US official has stated that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and under US Navy control, following a covert mine-clearing operation that began in April. This assessment suggests an increase in shipping traffic is expected.
The official also indicated satisfaction with current oil and gas flows through the strategic waterway. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported progress in negotiations between Oman and Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz, with diplomatic sources suggesting a potential agreement could be reached soon. Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson described the talks with Oman as positive.
However, President Donald Trump's claim of "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz has been dismissed by Iran. Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, stated that the waterway would not be opened unless the US meets Iran's conditions. Commercial shipping remains disrupted, with recent incidents including US forces targeting a vessel in the Gulf of Oman and a Houthi attack on a cargo vessel in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait that resulted in fatalities.
David des Roches, a former Pentagon director, suggested a potential deal might involve Iran denying free passage in its territorial waters while not interfering with passage through Oman's waters. Diplomatic efforts are also underway between Israel and Lebanon, mediated by the US, to implement a framework agreement.