In a highly important development, Oman and Iran have held talks on easing passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with the key shipping chokepoint effectively closed due to war in the Middle East.
According to media reports, the two countries have held talks at “the deputy ministers’ level in the foreign ministries of the two countries, with the attendance of specialists from both sides, during which the possible options were discussed regarding ensuring the smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The experts from both sides put forward a number of visions and proposals regarding it.”
No doubt, the foregoing clearly suggests that something good is likely to come out of the talks between Oman and the Islamic republic before the expiry of 48-hour ultimatum that US President Donald Trump has issued to Teheran for cutting what he says ‘a deal’.
However, my optimism still holds although critical infrastructure across the Gulf has again come under attack from Iran amid Trump’s seemingly grim ‘deadline’. It is, however, interesting to note that the US President appears to be confident about the prospects of “talks” with Iran through whatever channels, knowing well that the Islamic republic is still willing to continue to fight.
But it is a curious paradox that both the US and Iran believe their chance of winning is high.
Therefore, one of the questions that need some plausible answers at this point in time is: is either side willing to leave room for compromise? In my view, both sides have decided to show flexibility to reach a “deal” at the earliest.
Sadeq Mehmanparast (Karachi)
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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