A deal that could restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz appears to be within reach after US President Donald Trump said negotiations involving the United States, Iran and Oman were making good progress, while warning Tehran that failure to reopen the strategic waterway could trigger a forceful military response.
Speaking during an interview with Fox News on Tuesday, Trump expressed confidence that ongoing talks could produce an agreement within days, saying efforts to reopen one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes were advancing positively.
His remarks came as reports indicated negotiators were close to sealing an interim arrangement aimed at restoring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, lowering tensions in the Gulf and allowing commercial vessels to move freely once again.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important shipping routes, carrying a large share of global oil and natural gas exports. Any interruption to movement through the narrow waterway can quickly affect energy supplies and trade across the world.
While expressing optimism about the negotiations, Trump also made it clear that the United States was prepared to respond if the route remained closed.
"The strait is going to be open very soon, or they're going to get hit very hard — and then the strait's going to be open."
He said discussions with Tehran were progressing well and argued that Iran was looking for a way to end the conflict that began on February 28 following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.
"We're having very good discussions. The only thing that matters is action. And they want to make a deal. We'll see what happens."
Trump also indicated that he was willing to give diplomacy more time before making further decisions.
"I have plenty of time."
According to reports, the agreement under discussion would create a 60-day arrangement to guarantee safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman. The temporary plan would allow commercial ships to pass without paying transit fees and could be extended if all parties agree.
The proposal also includes separate routes for vessels travelling in and out of the Gulf. Ships heading into the Gulf would use a northern navigation lane, while those leaving would follow a southern route through Oman's territorial waters.
If the negotiations are concluded successfully, the arrangement could help ease tensions in one of the world's most sensitive regions while restoring confidence in a key global energy corridor that has remained under close watch since fighting escalated earlier this year.
Even with Trump's confidence, the proposed framework will depend on how it is carried out and whether all sides keep their commitments to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement through one of the world's busiest maritime passages.