Iran and Oman approve new Strait of Hormuz route as US signals optimism

Iran and Oman have approved geographical coordinates for a new shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian diplomatic spokesperson Esmaïl Baghaï. Tehran stated that a joint declaration is being prepared, warning that progress remains subject to "third parties not coming to obstruct the process."

The announcement follows weeks of maritime disruption triggered by US-Iranian military friction in early July. Washington and Qatari mediators expressed optimism that an agreement to reopen the strategic waterway could be reached rapidly. However, Iranian officials explicitly denied holding direct talks with the United States.

Sources: La Tribune, Le Figaro, Le Monde, Libération, RTBF Info.