US Reroutes 51 Commercial Ships Amid Progress on Strait of Hormuz Deal

The United States has rerouted 51 commercial vessels as talks to restore normal commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz make progress between Iran and Oman. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the move on Friday, according to Shafaq News.

CENTCOM said the vessels were rerouted after maritime sanctions and restrictions related to Iran were reinstated on July 14. US forces also stopped two vessels and boarded two others for inspections to determine whether they were complying with the maritime restrictions.

Meanwhile, a US official said negotiations between Iran and Oman to restore normal commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have made significant progress, with an agreement potentially expected soon.

According to the official, if a deal guaranteeing the free movement of commercial vessels takes effect, the United States could lift restrictions imposed on Iranian ports. However, any easing of sanctions would depend on Iran’s compliance with the terms of the agreement.

A proposed understanding on commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is also awaiting final approval from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Axios reported, citing a diplomat.

Despite the progress, Washington and Tehran remain divided over the route that commercial vessels should use. The United States has proposed that ships travel close to Oman’s coast. Iran, however, argues that as one of the two coastal states bordering the Strait of Hormuz, it should also have a role in regulating maritime traffic.