ISLAMABAD — Pakistan said the United States and Iran were close to reaching a deal, raising hopes on Tuesday of progress toward resolving a standoff over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy shipping route that has been largely blocked during the conflict.
Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said Washington and Tehran were approaching "some sort" of peace arrangement or deal, according to remarks reported by Bloomberg and cited by Reuters. The comments came as Qatar, another mediator, said talks on managing shipping through the strait were at an advanced stage.
The statements offered a fresh indication of diplomatic movement after prospects for an agreement had deteriorated in recent days. Pakistan has been involved in efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran, while Qatar and Oman have also worked to facilitate discussions focused on the security and operation of the waterway.
Iran, however, has continued to signal that significant obstacles remain. On Wednesday, a senior Iranian official said there had been no discussions over extending a ceasefire with Washington and insisted that the United States return to the terms of an interim agreement and set a timetable for meeting its commitments. Tehran has also said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until Washington addresses Iranian demands, including sanctions relief and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.
The waterway, which connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, is a major route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Before the conflict, about one-fifth of global oil supplies moved through the strait, making any prolonged disruption a significant concern for energy markets.
Oil prices have reflected uncertainty over the negotiations. Brent crude rose to a one-week high on Tuesday as concerns about supply disruptions in the Middle East and elsewhere outweighed optimism surrounding the Hormuz talks.
The latest diplomatic signals therefore point to progress but do not establish that a final agreement has been reached. The immediate focus remains on whether Washington and Tehran can resolve their outstanding differences and establish arrangements allowing safe maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
