Hormuz Talks between Iran and Oman moved closer to a breakthrough on Wednesday after Tehran confirmed the two countries had reached a mutual understanding on the geographic route for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials said a joint statement is in its final drafting stage, although they warned that outside interference could still derail the process.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei described the negotiations with Oman as professional and constructive, saying both sides had agreed on the geographical framework of a proposed navigation corridor. Hormuz Talks have become increasingly significant because the Strait of Hormuz handles around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making it one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.

Baghaei stressed that any agreement with Muscat would not automatically reopen the strait or guarantee maritime security. Iranian officials insisted that the future of the waterway depends on what Tehran describes as US compliance with international law and an end to American interference in the negotiations.

According to Reuters, the proposed arrangement would give Iran greater control over vessels entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, marking one of the most significant concessions discussed during the negotiations. However, officials familiar with the talks cautioned that key issues remain unresolved despite progress.

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Iranian media also reported that negotiations involve only Tehran and Muscat and have no direct connection with the United States. Officials maintained that the strait would remain closed if Washington continued what Iran considers unlawful actions or military threats.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen “very soon,” saying discussions with Iran were progressing well. He warned that the United States would respond forcefully if negotiations collapsed or if Tehran resumed activities linked to its nuclear programme.

The diplomatic developments came as oil prices declined and Asian stock markets advanced on expectations that a shipping agreement could ease disruptions in global energy supplies.

Elsewhere, Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack on the Saudi oil tanker Wafaa in the Red Sea, saying the strike formed part of its campaign against Saudi maritime traffic. Saudi authorities did not immediately comment on the claim.

The United Nations also voiced concern over a sharp increase in executions in Iran since March, with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warning that capital punishment was being used to spread fear following anti-government protests.

Israeli officials, meanwhile, questioned Washington’s diplomatic strategy, claiming the Trump administration appeared determined to secure an agreement with Iran despite continuing regional tensions.