Hormuz Deal negotiations gained fresh attention on Wednesday after US Vice President JD Vance said Washington would use military, economic and diplomatic tools to bring the conflict with Iran to a lasting resolution. While expressing optimism about ongoing talks, Vance acknowledged that negotiations remain difficult because of divisions within Iran’s leadership.

Speaking to Fox News, Vance said some Iranian officials wanted the conflict to end, while others continued to support confrontation. He stressed that the United States would pursue diplomacy but would not rule out other measures if negotiations failed. Hormuz Deal discussions have become increasingly important because the Strait of Hormuz carries nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments, making any disruption a major concern for international energy markets.

US President Donald Trump also reiterated that he preferred a diplomatic agreement over military action, saying he wanted to avoid further loss of life. However, he warned that force remained an option if Tehran abandoned negotiations or continued pursuing nuclear capabilities.

At the same time, Trump dismissed reports claiming the United States faced shortages of critical weapons, insisting the country maintained “massive” munitions stockpiles while new production facilities were expanding. He also vowed legal action against anyone responsible for leaking classified defence information.

Strait of Hormuz Talks Gain Momentum as Iran Nears Oman Understanding Despite US Tensions

Meanwhile, eight leading international shipping organisations urged the United Nations to reject any compulsory tolls or transit fees for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz. The groups warned that such charges would undermine freedom of navigation, increase shipping costs and disrupt global supply chains.

Their appeal followed reports that Iran and Oman had reached preliminary understandings on future navigation arrangements. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said discussions were close to completion but clarified that the proposed framework would not immediately reopen the strategic waterway.

Maritime security concerns also intensified after the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a commercial tanker heard two explosions while transiting near the Omani coast in the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel and crew remained safe, but authorities advised ships to exercise extreme caution.

Elsewhere, Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for missile attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in a single day, while Israel confirmed that two of its soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon following an explosive device attack.

In Tehran, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described communication with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei as “very difficult” but praised his leadership during one of the country’s most challenging periods. Iranian officials also maintained that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would depend on changes in US policies and the implementation of previous commitments.

Reuters also reported that a proposed agreement between Iran and Oman could grant Tehran greater authority over vessels entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. However, negotiators said several key issues—including inspection mechanisms, shipping fees and operational control—remain unresolved.

Despite continuing diplomatic contacts, uncertainty over military threats, maritime security and regional stability continues to keep global markets and governments closely focused on developments in the Gulf.