U.S. and Iran Hold Indirect Talks in Oman on Maritime Security and Nuclear Agreement
Amid ongoing tensions over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, representatives from the United States and Iran have held multiple rounds of indirect talks in Muscat, Oman, focusing on reopening safe navigation corridors and reviving discussions on the nuclear agreement. While both parties demonstrated a willingness to engage to de-escalate maritime friction, significant divergences remain on core issues.
As a crucial transit passage for global crude oil, the Strait of Hormuz has recently seen heightened security risks, triggering sharp fluctuations in international crude oil prices and a steep rise in maritime shipping insurance premiums. To reduce the risk of unintentional escalation, the Omani government stepped in as a neutral mediator in early August. During the talks, the U.S. side requested Iran to guarantee the free transit of commercial vessels through the strait and cease actions targeting regional waterways. In return, Iranian representatives demanded the complete lifting of U.S. sanctions on its energy and financial sectors, alongside an end to military deterrence operations in the Persian Gulf.
Addressing the negotiation progress, a U.S. Department of State spokesperson confirmed the indirect contact during an August 4 press briefing, reiterating that Washington maintains a policy of "diplomatic engagement paired with security deterrence" and will not compromise on primary security principles. On the same day, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated in Tehran that Iran retains the legitimate right to ensure security in the Strait of Hormuz and its territorial waters, adding that any maritime security arrangements must respect Iranian sovereignty and be contingent upon the total removal of unlawful sanctions.
As of now, key issues-including the scope of sanction relief, nuclear compliance verification mechanisms, and daily waterway management authority-remain unresolved. Omani negotiators noted that both sides have agreed to keep communication channels open, with subsequent phases of dialogue to be determined following the evaluation of current preliminary consultations.
