The United States and Qatar have expressed optimism over ongoing diplomatic efforts to restore a ceasefire with Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, raising hopes of easing tensions in one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said negotiations were moving forward and suggested an agreement could be reached soon to allow commercial shipping to resume through the strategic waterway.
His comments followed similar remarks by US President Donald Trump, who said earlier this week that a breakthrough was close. Tehran, however, denied it was engaged in direct negotiations with Washington.
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari said Qatar, Oman and Pakistan were working together to facilitate indirect talks between the two sides by exchanging draft proposals. He described the discussions as having reached “very progressive stages.”
A senior Pakistani official also confirmed that mediators were maintaining contacts with both Washington and Tehran in an effort to encourage formal negotiations.
Despite the positive statements, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to commercial shipping. Maritime security officials also reported that a cargo vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile near the Omani coast, highlighting the fragile security situation in the area.
Diplomatic efforts are currently focused on a temporary shipping arrangement being negotiated between Iran and Oman. The proposal would establish designated transit routes through the Strait while broader negotiations continue on maritime security and other outstanding issues.
Regional diplomats said discussions also include the future management of shipping traffic and financial arrangements linked to vessels using the waterway during a proposed 60-day negotiation period.
Iran’s state broadcaster reported that talks with Oman had made positive technical and political progress and were aimed at establishing mechanisms to ensure the safe movement of ships through the strategic passage.
However, diplomats familiar with the negotiations said differences remain within Iran’s leadership. While some officials support reaching an agreement to reduce tensions, others remain skeptical of any deal involving the United States.
The Strait of Hormuz carries around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports, making its reopening a key priority for regional governments and international energy markets. Oil prices fell after signs of diplomatic progress, reflecting growing market expectations that shipping could soon resume.
