• Iran’s top security official says mediators have requested Tehran’s terms for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with a list now being prepared.
  • Conditions reportedly include an end to regional hostilities, while a new corridor with Oman is agreed, straddling both nations’ waters.
  • The move suggests a potential de-escalation in Gulf tensions, though details remain murky.

Tehran’s Conditional Opening

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Ali Rezaei, revealed in an interview with Al Manar TV that international mediators have asked Iran to outline its conditions for resuming normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. According to an interpreter’s translation of the interview, Rezaei said Tehran is “preparing a list” of demands, which explicitly include “ending the war in the region.”

Rezaei’s remarks, aired Thursday, mark one of the clearest signals yet that Iran may be willing to ease its de facto restrictions on the strait—imposed amidst heightened tensions with the US and its allies—but only in exchange for broader security guarantees. He did not specify which conflicts he meant, but the region has been roiled by the Gaza war and ongoing skirmishes involving Iranian-backed proxies.

Omani Corridor Agreement

The official also disclosed a separate understanding with Oman: “We have agreed to a corridor with Oman, part of it lies in Omani waters and some in Iranian waters.” This arrangement, he said, could provide an alternative route for shipping, potentially mitigating the impact of any continued restrictions on the main strait. The corridor’s operational status and capacity remain unclear, and there has been no immediate comment from Omani authorities.

Rezaei’s comments come as tanker traffic through Hormuz has seen disruptions in recent weeks, with insurers hiking war-risk premiums and some shippers rerouting. The strait handles roughly a fifth of global oil consumption, and any prolonged closure would roil energy markets—already on edge due to supply concerns.

Diplomacy in Flux

Efforts to ease tensions have been underway behind the scenes, with mediation attempts by regional players like Qatar and Oman. While no formal talks have been announced, Rezaei’s statement suggests Iran is engaging with these backchannels, albeit with high bars. “Without a deal, the strait could remain a flashpoint, but this corridor and the conditions signal a possible opening,” said one Gulf-based analyst familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity.

We reached out to Iran’s mission to the UN for comment but did not receive a response by publication time.

Market Reaction and Outlook

Oil prices showed little immediate reaction, suggesting traders remain skeptical of a quick resolution. Brent crude was trading near $85 a barrel, up modestly on the day. Shipping sources say some vessels are still opting for longer routes around Africa to avoid unpredictability.

Whether Rezaei’s list will lead to concrete negotiations—or prove a stalling tactic—remains to be seen. But for now, the signal is that Iran is at least prepared to talk about Hormuz. That itself is a shift from earlier brinkmanship, and it may offer a slender thread for diplomats to pull.

This article was updated to include Rezaei’s reference to the Omani corridor and market reaction.