Discussions between Iran and Oman over reopening the Strait of Hormuz are progressing at the technical and political levels, while Qatar said the priority is to contain the escalation in the region as US President Donald Trump continues his threats.
US-based media outlet Axios reported that a deal on Hormuz was near, but Iran reiterated that the talks were between Tehran and Muscat and had nothing to do with Washington. Similarly, Qatar said it does not set specific timelines for an agreement.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei told state television that the negotiations with Oman are focused on determining safe inbound and outbound transit routes for vessels in the strait, Mehr News reported on Wednesday.
Baghaei said the discussions, which have taken place at both technical and political levels, are proceeding in a constructive atmosphere.
"Iran, in cooperation with Oman, is working to formulate the necessary mechanisms for future arrangements for managing shipping transit in this strategic passage," Baghaei was quoted as saying.
