US guarantees free passage in Strait of Hormuz as Iran deal nears
The US announced the strait will remain open to commercial vessels following a potential agreement with Iran.
1US statement on the strait
US Central Command declared the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz free and open for all commercial vessels. A post on X emphasized that over 1,000 ships have been assisted in transiting the strait despite Iran's unwarranted aggression. The southern route passes through Omani territorial waters rather than the section closer to Iran.
2Bessent signals potential deal
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC that negotiations with Iran continue and an agreement to open the strait could be reached this week. Bessent stated, 'We may have a deal today or tomorrow to open the Strait and move toward normalization in this conflict.' Following these remarks, oil prices dropped sharply.
3Oil market fluctuations
Brent crude rose 0.43% to $79.7 per barrel on Wednesday after a 5.3% drop the previous day. West Texas Intermediate futures edged up 0.21% to $75.95 after falling 5.7%. Market analysts note that the possibility of the strait reopening has eased supply concerns in the oil market.
4Mounting pressure on Oman
A senior Middle East diplomat told MS NOW that the US and European countries are applying significant pressure on Oman to reach a temporary agreement with Iran. The diplomat said, 'Oman plays a critical role in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.' Talks mediated by Pakistan reportedly involve indirect US participation.
5Key statement from Pakistan
A senior Pakistani government official confirmed that a document to reopen the strait is nearing finalization. The source, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, added that talks between Iran and Oman are being mediated by Pakistan with indirect US involvement in the process.
6US military preparedness
The Pentagon and White House stated that the US maintains sufficient munitions stockpiles despite having used nearly all long-range precision missiles during the Iran war. Reuters reported the US Army has depleted most of its Tactical Missile Systems and Precision Strike Missiles. CNN revealed 80% of THAAD missile defense interceptors have been used.
7Trump's munitions remarks
President Donald Trump asserted, 'We have far more munitions than anyone in the world, far more than we need.' He noted defense companies are producing at record levels while expanding facilities. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated, 'Operation Epic Fury demonstrated the consequences of challenging the United States.'
8Critical for global energy trade
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic waterway carrying about 20% of global oil trade. Its potential closure could shock worldwide energy supplies. A diplomatic solution would reduce regional tensions while stabilizing oil prices. Experts emphasize that an agreement would positively impact the global economy.