Cairo, Sept 30:
Mediators are working behind the scenes with Iran and the United States to broker a deal aimed at ending the fighting and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but major differences remain between the two sides, according to regional and US officials.
The indirect discussions come as the conflict enters its eighth month and has caused significant economic disruption. The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important waterways for oil shipments, has remained at the centre of diplomatic efforts to restore safe commercial navigation.
Two regional officials said mediators are working on a proposal under which the strait would be reopened and the US blockade lifted, followed by steps on sanctions. A separate arrangement being discussed between Iran and Oman could temporarily regulate shipping through the waterway, with Tehran seeking a no-toll arrangement.
Iran’s latest proposal reportedly calls for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened within seven days after the United States accepts the plan. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has continued diplomatic contacts with regional mediators and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
The United States, however, is seeking concrete progress on Iran’s nuclear programme before agreeing to a broader deal. A US official said Washington could consider sanctions relief and the release of some frozen Iranian funds in return for progress on nuclear issues. The two sides remain divided over the timing and sequencing of such steps.
Iran has indicated flexibility on the nuclear issue, but the US side remains sceptical about Tehran’s commitments. Washington also believes economic pressure from sanctions and the blockade is strengthening its negotiating position.
The conflict has also imposed economic costs on both sides. Higher oil prices have affected the global economy, while Iran has faced growing restrictions on its oil exports. Brent crude was trading above USD 108 a barrel amid the continuing tensions.
UN chief Guterres has welcomed the recent diplomatic efforts and urged the parties to continue negotiations. The mediators’ efforts now face the challenge of bridging differences over the nuclear issue, sanctions, the blockade and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.