US claims progress on Hormuz Strait reopening without transit fees

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Sunday (24 May) that progress had been made in drafting a framework agreement to reopen the Hormuz Strait without transit fees. “Significant progress has been made, though it is not yet final,” Rubio told reporters in New Delhi, referring to indirect talks between the US and Iran mediated by Pakistan. Rubio emphasised that the Hormuz Strait is an international shipping lane, not Iranian territory. He said the US and Gulf partners had made diplomatic progress in the past 48 hours regarding the agreement framework. According to Rubio, if successful, the deal would not only reopen the Hormuz Strait without transit fees, but also address key issues related to Iran’s past nuclear ambitions. However, he stressed the agreement requires full acceptance and compliance from Iran, as well as further technical negotiations. US President Donald Trump previously contacted several Middle Eastern leaders on Saturday night to discuss negotiations with Iran. Trump said the agreement had been largely negotiated and was awaiting finalisation. “The ultimate goal is for Iran to never possess nuclear weapons,” Rubio said. He described Iran’s nuclear programme as a technical issue that may take time to resolve. “We prefer to resolve this issue through diplomatic channels,” Rubio added. He added the world may soon receive good news, at least regarding the Hormuz Strait.