DUBAI — Iran may allow a partial and tightly controlled reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as early as Thursday or Friday, a senior Iranian official said, in a move that could ease tensions ahead of planned talks with the United States in Pakistan.
The official, who is involved in the negotiations, said Tehran is considering reopening the vital shipping route “in a limited, controlled way” if both sides reach an initial understanding on a framework for dialogue. Under the proposed arrangement, all vessels would be required to coordinate closely with Iranian military authorities.
The development comes amid a fragile two-week ceasefire following weeks of escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and regional actors. Despite the truce, tensions remain high, raising uncertainty over whether diplomatic efforts can lead to a lasting agreement.
Iranian officials said the country prefers a sustainable peace but remains prepared to return to conflict if negotiations fail or if it faces further provocation. The Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route through which about a fifth of the world’s supply passes, has been central to the crisis. Its recent disruption has affected international shipping and energy markets.
Recent reports indicate that limited shipping activity has cautiously resumed under strict monitoring, though many global shipping firms remain hesitant due to security risks and the lack of firm guarantees. Oil prices, which surged during the height of the tensions, have shown slight easing following the ceasefire, although volatility persists.
Talks between U.S. and Iranian officials expected in Pakistan are seen as a crucial step toward de-escalation. Diplomatic sources said mediation efforts helped prevent a breakdown in negotiations, but key differences remain unresolved, including issues related to maritime access
Edgardo Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
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