US Signals Lifting of Iran Blockade
Washington expects an imminent Iran-Oman deal on overseeing the strategic waterway, which could restore global oil exports.
Washington expects an imminent Iran-Oman deal on overseeing the strategic waterway, which could restore global oil exports.
An American official reported on Friday, August 8, 2026, progress in negotiations between Iran and Oman that could soon lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This move is crucial for restoring oil exports, which were severely disrupted during the five-month war between the United States and Israel against Iran.
The official, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed to Reuters that Washington expects an agreement between the two countries bordering this vital waterway soon. Reaching an agreement is seen as a key step toward a broader peace settlement.
"Progress has been made between Oman and Iran regarding the strait, and we expect an agreement soon. Once an agreement is announced that allows for the unhindered resumption of commercial maritime traffic, the United States will lift the blockade on Iranian ports. As always, U.S. actions will continue to depend on the implementation of what has been agreed upon and be tied to Iran's fulfillment of its commitments," the U.S. official stated.
Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz intensified alongside the increased actions of their allies, the Houthis from Yemen. They targeted vessels on another key maritime route for oil transport, between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Before the conflict began on February 28, 2026, roughly one-fifth of the world's total oil consumption passed through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran, according to reports, used the state of war as justification for imposing fees on tankers and opening fire on ships that passed without permission. Supply disruptions caused a sharp rise in energy prices and fueled global inflation, directly impacting the Croatian economy as well.
The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, one of the world's largest energy producers, announced on Friday that 15 of its vessels had been hit in what they call "unprovoked attacks" since the start of the conflict. One crew member was killed and 20 were injured in these incidents.
The Trump administration has repeatedly signaled in recent weeks that a deal to open the strait could be close, but Iran has previously denied that any negotiations were taking place. It remains unclear whether the latest intensive diplomatic efforts will result in a lasting solution that would stabilize the global energy market.
