Iran’s foreign ministry has reiterated that the United States is not involved in recent bilateral talks with Oman regarding the administration of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway in the Persian Gulf. Spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stated during a weekly press briefing that the discussions are solely between Iran and Oman, and that the strait remains closed (arabnews.pk). The ministry emphasized that the talks are ongoing and have no connection with the United States.
The situation in the region has been tense, with the strait under Iranian control since the outbreak of hostilities between Iran and the United States on February 28. Despite the ongoing conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump has paused attacks on Iran to create space for diplomacy, according to reports (illawarramercury.com.au). This pause has led to a temporary ceasefire and raised hopes for renewed negotiations.
Meanwhile, regional mediators report progress in diplomatic efforts to halt the war between the U.S. and Iran, with a pause in attacks following a period of heightened tensions (winnipegfreepress.com). Oil prices have also dropped as a result of the pause in strikes, boosting optimism for a return to negotiations and the reopening of Hormuz (iol.co.za). However, Iran has made it clear that its discussions with Oman are independent of U.S. involvement.
