Gulf States Cave on Iran Control Over Strategic Waterway

Gulf Arab states are reportedly willing to accept Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz as part of a potential agreement, according to The Wall Street Journal. Representatives from these countries have also come to terms with leaving Iran's missile program largely intact in any future deal. Additionally, they are prepared for an agreement that does not fully resolve the issue of Iran-backed armed groups operating across the region.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, carrying approximately 20% of global oil supplies and around 25% of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. This makes ensuring its safety and security essential for international trade and economic stability.

The potential agreement comes after US President Donald Trump said he would be prepared to end the war with Iran even without reaching a nuclear agreement, as long as Tehran agrees to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping.