Iran Proposes Barring US, Israeli Ships from Strait of Hormuz in Oman Deal

According to local media reports regarding a draft agreement with Oman, Iran has suggested prohibiting vessels from the US and Israel from entering the Strait of Hormuz and has called for compensation from adversarial nations prior to their access to the waterway. This agreement is considered vital for the reopening of Hormuz and the restoration of energy supplies disrupted by US and Israeli assaults on Iran in February. The semi-official Fars news agency indicated that the proposal is currently under consideration in Iran's parliament. It also includes a prohibition on Israeli-related cargo and a fee structure for services such as insurance and environmental expenses. Thomas Warrick, a former US State Department official, remarked that this proposal would likely be poorly received in Washington, as both parties are raising demands instead of offering compromises. Additionally, Fars reported that Iranian naval forces targeted "hostile targets" at the Strait's entrance, citing an unnamed source, though no further details were provided. Following these events, oil prices increased while stock values declined.