Iran Proposes Limited Shipping Corridor in Hormuz Strait Amid Ongoing US Talks

Iran has reportedly put forward a new proposal aimed at easing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting a possible conditional reopening of the vital maritime route for international shipping under a future agreement with the United States.

The development comes as diplomatic efforts intensify, with Pakistan playing a key mediating role between Washington and Tehran. On Wednesday, Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Tehran, where he held closed-door talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, delivering a special message from the United States.

According to multiple reports, Iran has indicated that if a comprehensive agreement is reached, international vessels may be allowed to pass freely through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz without obstruction. However, details remain unclear regarding security measures, including whether naval mines would be removed or whether restrictions on certain categories of ships would remain in place.

The proposal is being viewed by analysts as a potential first step toward easing disruptions in one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes, where recent tensions have left hundreds of vessels and thousands of crew members stranded in the Persian Gulf region.

Officials involved in the talks suggest that the success of any agreement will depend heavily on whether the United States is willing to meet Iran’s conditions in broader negotiations. The White House has not yet issued an official response to the reported proposal.

Meanwhile, discussions continue over the timing and location of a possible second round of direct talks between the two sides, with reports indicating that Islamabad could again serve as a venue.

Despite diplomatic progress, tensions remain high. The United States has recently tightened economic sanctions targeting Iran’s oil transportation infrastructure and individuals linked to its energy export network. U.S. Treasury officials stated that pressure will continue until Iran’s oil smuggling operations are fully dismantled.

At the same time, Israel has maintained a firm stance, warning that its military remains prepared for rapid renewed operations if political developments fail to meet its security expectations, adding further uncertainty to the fragile situation.