US seeks free Hormuz access from Iran as talks focus on strait
Iran and Oman are engaged in diplomatic discussions regarding the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States is pressuring Iran to provide a public guarantee that the waterway will remain open and toll-free following recent hostilities.
Why it matters
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy chokepoint; continued instability there significantly impacts global oil prices and inflation.
A vessel at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, July 8, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer — Stringer By Parisa Hafezi and Steve Holland
DUBAI/WASHINGTON, July 11 (Reuters) - Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and his Omani counterpart on Saturday discussed arrangements for the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington seeks a public pledge of free, secure transit.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday the U.S. and Iran had agreed to continue talks despite an escalation of hostilities this week, while also declaring an end to the ceasefire between the two countries.
No attacks were reported on Friday or Saturday, however. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that Iran, the U.S., Qatar, and Pakistan had agreed to negotiate in a call that mediators were trying to arrange for Saturday while Araqchi is in Oman.
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