Iran is publicly confirming that negotiations with Oman on the Strait of Hormuz are making progress, while firmly denying direct talks with the United States.
– At the same time, regional mediators, including Qatar and Pakistan, remain active behind the scenes, suggesting that diplomatic channels are still open despite military posturing.
– On Monday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry announced that talks with Oman are focusing on creating a temporary route for vessels by merging both the Iranian and the Omani routes in the waterway until a permanent agreement can be reached.
– Creating a single, albeit temporary, route through the waterway could be the first step towards building trust between Iran and the US.
– But Iranian officials maintain that there are no direct negotiations with the US pertaining to the Strait of Hormuz at this time.
– Despite this diplomatic momentum, Iran says its military deterrence remains in place. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has announced that it’s ready to retaliate to any threats, as the US Central Command said American forces are fully prepared to protect commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
https://aje.news/2qhnm7?update=4827148