Negotiations between Iran and Oman could give Tehran a greater role in controlling ships entering the Strait of Hormuz, though major issues remain unresolved. Disagreements over the extent of Iran's authority, ship inspections and transit fees continue, while the talks come amid heightened tensions and attacks on regional shipping routes.

New Delhi, August 5, 2026: A proposed agreement between Iran and Oman could give Tehran control over ships entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, a senior Iranian source and two regional officials told Reuters on Wednesday, potentially marking one of the biggest concessions to Iran.

However, despite apparent movement towards meeting some Iranian demands, the sources rejected suggestions by US President Donald Trump that an agreement to reopen the strait was imminent, saying significant details remained unresolved.

"The concession has already been made regarding some form of control over Hormuz," one regional source told Reuters.

Another regional source said negotiators had yet to determine how "control" would be defined. Gulf negotiators are pushing for regional countries to supervise ship inspections and for any fees to be voluntary.