What are Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan’s joint military capabilities?

Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan have signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, pledging collective deterrence against aggression. This pact combines Saudi Arabia's status as a top oil exporter, Turkiye's large NATO military, and Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Together, the three nations possess nearly 1.4 million active military personnel, over 3,400 aircraft, 6,000 tanks, and more than 340 naval assets, with a combined annual defense spending of approximately $124.4 billion. The agreement aims to strengthen their collective security amidst growing regional tensions, including concerns over Israel's military reach and Iran's influence. The pact leverages complementary strengths, with Saudi Arabia contributing capital and convening power, Turkiye offering advanced defense industries and NATO expertise, and Pakistan providing manpower, operational experience, and nuclear capability.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have signed a new defense pact, the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, which stipulates that an armed attack on any one signatory will be considered an attack on all three. This tripartite agreement follows a bilateral defense pact signed between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in September. Analysts in New Delhi are concerned that Pakistan might leverage this agreement to forge broader security alliances with Muslim-majority nations in India's vicinity. The pact was signed on Friday.

Negotiations between Iran and the US over the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have stalled due to new, competing demands, impacting oil prices. Iran has presented six conditions, including an end to US threats, lifting sanctions, and compensation for "imposed wars," while stating it is negotiating directly with Oman for future management of the strait. Conversely, US President Donald Trump has demanded compensation from Iran for decades of alleged damages and deaths linked to Iranian actions. These escalatory demands have raised doubts about prospects for a broader diplomatic settlement, with experts suggesting wider peace talks are unlikely until the Hormuz issue is resolved. Oil prices have surged as a result of the ongoing friction and fading hopes for an agreement.

US President Donald Trump has demanded compensation from Iran for alleged damages over the past 50 years, framing it as a response to Tehran's condition for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has stated it will only reopen the strait, through which a significant portion of global oil flows, if Washington agrees to pay war reparations and end sanctions. Trump claims the compensation would cover deaths among US forces and Iranian civilians, citing figures of 52,000 killed in Iran in the past four months, though other reports offer different numbers. Talks between Iran and Oman regarding the strait are ongoing, but Trump's demands could complicate efforts to reopen the maritime passage. The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively blocked since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran in February, impacting oil prices and inflation.

President Donald Trump has indicated a shift in US strategy towards Iran, prioritizing economic pressure over new military strikes. This approach involves relying on sanctions and a naval blockade, which Trump believes are significantly impacting Iran's financial stability, leading to high inflation and difficulties in paying its troops. The US is "semi-negotiating" with Tehran, monitoring the economic toll of these measures. Trump also noted that stabilizing oil prices has eased the economic strain on American consumers. These remarks coincide with ongoing mediated talks by Oman aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, though Iran insists the US must alter its behavior, including lifting the naval blockade, before a full reopening occurs.

President Trump is currently prioritizing economic pressure over immediate military action against Iran, viewing the nation's severe economic distress as leverage. He stated that the U.S. is "semi-negotiating" and observing Iran's high inflation and lack of funds, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. However, the article questions how much of Iran's economic crisis stems from U.S. actions versus decades of internal corruption and mismanagement. The U.S. Treasury's "Economic Fury" campaign targets Iran's revenue streams, including oil trade and cryptocurrency. Experts suggest that while sanctions accelerate Iran's decline, the regime's own policies and spending priorities, particularly on the military and IRGC, have created deep vulnerabilities.

Iran has leveraged the ongoing conflict to gain influence over the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan are developing a new regional security framework to counter Tehran's increased leverage. While Iran seeks to control passage and impose transit fees through Hormuz, the United States rejects these conditions, aiming for unimpeded commercial shipping. Negotiations between Iran and Oman regarding the Strait's reopening are ongoing, but disagreements persist over territorial water control and transit payments, which pose challenges for international shipping companies due to US sanctions. The central issue remains who will dictate the rules governing the Gulf.

Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's explicit rejection of a US-led 15-point peace plan for Gaza, U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that their relationship remains "very good." Netanyahu formally refused to endorse the plan, which proposed Israel withdrawing forces in exchange for Hamas disarmament, after days of escalating criticism. This rejection aligns with pressure from Netanyahu's right-wing base and cabinet members. The plan, announced by Trump late last month, outlined a phased approach for armed groups in Gaza to surrender weapons to a new Palestinian governing body, with Israel beginning troop withdrawals to end the conflict. Netanyahu had previously acknowledged receiving a draft but disagreed with it, making Sunday his first formal assertion of refusal.

President Trump has demanded that Iran pay compensation for the deaths of thousands of US soldiers and Iranian civilians over recent decades. This demand, made via Truth Social, is seen as a sign that negotiations to end conflicts and reopen the Strait of Hormuz have stalled. Trump stated this is in response to Iranian negotiators making similar claims for damages from the recent five-month war. The demands are likely to provoke anger in Tehran and are considered a nonstarter by Iranian leaders. This comes as Israel has rejected Trump's 15-point roadmap to end the war in Gaza, with Prime Minister Netanyahu stating Israel prioritizes its security. Trump also expanded his demands to include compensation for damages and deaths caused in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza.

US President Donald Trump stated that Washington is only "semi-negotiating" with Iran and will allow economic pressure to increase. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed there are no direct talks with the US, asserting that the Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until Washington meets Tehran's demands, which include lifting the naval blockade. The article also notes that Israel has formally rejected a 15-point Gaza peace plan. This situation highlights ongoing tensions and diplomatic stances between the US, Iran, and Israel.

Turkiye aims to expand its new defense pact with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, signed on Friday as the Mecca Joint Deterrence Agreement, to include other countries, according to Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The pact establishes a collective security mechanism where an attack on one member is considered an attack on all, though specific support details will be decided through consultations. Egypt has been publicly suggested as a potential member, with Fidan calling it a "natural partner." However, analysts suggest Cairo may be hesitant due to potential military obligations, the need to protect existing alliances and aid relationships, and concerns about aligning with countries whose interests may differ from its own.

US President Donald Trump indicated on Sunday that the United States is prioritizing economic pressure on Iran, appearing to step back from further military action. Speaking to Axios, Trump stated, "We are low-keying it," suggesting a shift in strategy. This comes after a recent period where Trump had issued threats of significant military strikes against Iran, only to subsequently withdraw from that course. The President is reportedly seeking a deal to end the conflict, which he initiated with Israel. The article notes that this approach is being taken even as Tehran presents strong demands.

On August 7, 2026, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan signed a joint defense agreement in Mecca. This pact signifies a regional shift away from sole reliance on a single guarantor for security, aiming to diversify options and capabilities. It represents a preparation for a more pluralistic security order where regional powers produce security rather than import it, serving as an insurance policy against a less predictable US presence. The agreement seeks to build a third pole in the region, deterring potential hegemony from actors like Iran and Israel. The pact leverages the complementary strengths of its members: Saudi Arabia's capital and market, Turkiye's advanced military industry, and Pakistan's experienced military and nuclear capability, with a focus on defense localization and integration.

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis announced on Sunday they attacked Saudi Aramco's Jazan refinery. This attack occurred two days after Saudi Arabia signed a defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan, aimed at strengthening collective deterrence against regional instability. The Houthis claimed to have used a drone to target the refinery, which processes 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The Saudi energy ministry confirmed a fire broke out at the refinery but was extinguished with no injuries, stating authorities were addressing the incident without specifying a cause. The Houthis had previously declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for a drone attack on a Saudi oil refinery in Jazan early Sunday. This incident follows Saudi Arabia signing a defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan amid regional instability. The attack also occurred as Iran issued demands for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, linking it to US actions and compensation. The United Arab Emirates also reported its ship was targeted by an Iranian missile. Saudi Arabia's energy ministry confirmed a fire at the refinery, which was extinguished with no injuries. The Houthis stated they used a drone and have previously targeted Saudi oil infrastructure.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for a drone attack on an Aramco oil facility in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, stating it was retaliation for Saudi drone incursions. Saudi Arabia's Energy Ministry confirmed a fire at the refinery, which was extinguished without casualties. Meanwhile, Iran has presented new demands for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, stating it will not open until the U.S. "corrects its behavior," including ending threats and lifting sanctions. The Pentagon is urging the U.S. defense industry to accelerate weapons production to replenish depleted stockpiles. Separately, Iran and Oman are reportedly nearing a temporary deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, allowing ships to pass through routes near both countries without fees.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an end to the "neither war nor peace" status with the United States, believing it is the opportune moment for a lasting agreement. This statement comes as Iran and Oman are nearing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route that Iran has effectively blockaded since February 28. While Iran's Foreign Minister stated that reopening the strait is contingent on compensation for alleged violations of a prior memorandum of understanding, he clarified that Iran is exchanging messages with the US via intermediaries, not directly negotiating. Pezeshkian's remarks are seen as a dual message, bolstering domestic diplomatic factions while signaling to Washington Iran's readiness to negotiate.

Iran announced that a deal with Oman to establish new shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz is in its final stages. However, Iran reiterated that the waterway will only reopen after the United States meets unspecified conditions. A US official previously indicated that an agreement was close and could lead to the reopening of the strait, which previously handled a significant portion of global oil and LNG shipments before being blocked by Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the agreement would outline new lanes for when the strait reopens, contingent on US actions. He also noted that Iran is not directly negotiating with the US, but messages are being exchanged through intermediaries.

Israel has rejected a 15-point plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump concerning Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the Israeli military will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is "genuinely" disarmed. This decision comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, with Oman reporting positive talks with Iran, though a breakthrough is not yet clear. Separately, the Pentagon released a fifth batch of documents related to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP). An Indian-flagged ship was sunk off the coast of Yemen, with all 14 crew members safely rescued. Qatar indicated that US-Iran mediation efforts are continuing, but denied plans for direct talks.

Yemen's military launched attacks on Houthi rebels in response to recent strikes, marking a significant escalation since a 2022 truce, with the UN warning of increased conflict risk. In Turkey, a parliamentary committee approved a draft law aimed at advancing peace with Kurdish militants, including a conditional pardon-like mechanism for former fighters, contingent on the Kurdistan Workers' Party disarming and disbanding. The bill is expected to be debated in the general assembly next week.

The United Arab Emirates has accused Iran of striking an ADNOC tanker with a missile in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, describing it as an act of piracy by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The UAE called on Tehran to cease attacks and fully reopen the strait. ADNOC confirmed one of its ships was targeted, though details on damage and exact location were not provided. The UAE ministry warned that using the waterway for pressure threatens regional stability and global energy security. The Gulf Cooperation Council condemned the attack as a dangerous escalation and called for international action to protect maritime navigation.

Iran has issued stringent demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, stating it will not open until the United States "corrects its behavior," which includes ending threats, lifting sanctions, and compensating for war damages. These demands come as the United Arab Emirates reported one of its ships was targeted by an Iranian missile in the strait. Negotiations for a deal to open the waterway remain stalled, despite mediation efforts by Oman suggesting positive discussions. Iran claims to be close to an agreement on navigation routes but insists on these broader conditions, blaming the US for violating an interim deal. The attacks on shipping in the strategically vital strait continue, with Adnoc reporting multiple incidents.

Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan have signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, a mutual defense pact aimed at strengthening collective deterrence and enhancing defense cooperation. This agreement, signed in Mecca on Friday, comes amid regional turmoil following the US-Israel war on Iran. Analysts suggest the pact reflects growing doubts among regional partners about the reliability of US security guarantees and their desire to supplement security without discarding US support. The agreement is seen as a geopolitical sign of a reshaping regional order, with Saudi Arabia broadening its security partnerships beyond Washington. While the pact is not intended to replace the US, it provides additional strategic options for the participating nations.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that a new trilateral defense agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey is not aimed at Iran or any other specific country, but rather promotes regional stability. The "Mecca Joint Defense Agreement," signed by leaders of the three nations, establishes a mutual defense clause where an attack on one is considered an attack on all, similar to NATO's Article 5. Turkey's minister emphasized that the pact does not define a common threat and assistance would depend on the scale of a hostile action. Other nations have reportedly expressed interest in joining, with Egypt anticipated to participate in a future stage. The agreement will involve regular meetings of foreign and defense ministers and military chiefs, and a secretariat will be established in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan signed the "Makkah Joint Defence Agreement" on August 7, 2026, in Mecca. This pact treats an attack on any signatory as an attack on all three. While the agreement does not name a specific adversary, analysts suggest Iran and its regional network are central to its conception, particularly in the context of the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran. The pact builds upon a prior Saudi-Pakistan bilateral agreement and expands to include Turkiye's defense industry. Leaders described it as a "shield of peace" and stated it does not target any country, remaining open to others seeking peace. Analysts view it as a strategic signal aimed at creating uncertainty for adversaries and strengthening collective deterrence, rather than an immediate operational alliance.

Oman has reported positive discussions with Iran regarding an agreement for a secure shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Both nations indicated progress on Saturday, though a definitive timeline for a deal remains uncertain. Iran's Foreign Minister stated that while talks are in their final stages, the reopening of the strait is contingent on other conditions, including compensation from the United States for alleged violations of a previous agreement. This maritime route, crucial for global energy flow, has faced effective blockades since February following attacks by the US and Israel. The ongoing talks, involving Iran and Oman, aim to establish a jointly managed route to facilitate the resumption of shipping traffic. Oman's foreign ministry has cautioned against any attacks on shipping that could impede these efforts.

Iran and Oman have finalized coordinates for vessel routes through the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran's authorities deliberating the arrangement. However, Iran's Foreign Minister stated that a full reopening of the strait depends on the United States adhering to commitments from a June memorandum of understanding, which Iran claims were violated. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson indicated that the reopening has its own mechanism and requires the US to accept conditions set by Iran, viewing the strait as a source of power. Parliament's national security commission confirmed the framework of an arrangement with Oman has been agreed upon.

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye have signed the Mecca Joint Deterrence Agreement, a joint defense pact aimed at collective deterrence against aggression. The agreement stipulates that an armed attack on any of the three nations will be considered an attack on all. This pact, signed in Mecca by the leaders of the three countries, is a response to escalating regional tensions following the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent war involving the US and Israel against Iran. The agreement builds upon existing historical ties, brotherhood, Islamic solidarity, and shared strategic interests among the three states, reflecting a commitment to strengthening collective security and promoting regional stability. Negotiations for the pact gained momentum amid concerns over Iran's influence and actions, as well as Israel's growing presence in the region.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a mutual defense agreement, dubbed the "Mecca Joint Defense Agreement," solidifying cooperation between the three regional powers. The pact, signed in Mecca during a meeting of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stipulates that an attack on one signatory will be considered an attack on all. The agreement aims to enhance collective deterrence and defense cooperation, including potential joint military exercises, technology transfers, and intelligence sharing. This move comes amid growing regional security concerns and aims to strengthen ties between the three Sunni Muslim-majority states, leveraging Saudi Arabia's economic strength, Pakistan's military experience, and Turkey's defense industry.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a joint defense agreement, establishing that an attack on any one nation will be considered an attack on all three. This pact was announced in Mecca during a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The agreement comes amid heightened regional tensions, including the conflict between the US and Iran, which has involved Saudi Arabia and disrupted shipping. The three countries aim to bolster their security ties, with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan having previously announced a joint defense pact last year. This development follows attacks by Iran and its allies on Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states, and the Houthi rebels' "maritime embargo" against Saudi Arabia and targeting of Red Sea facilities.

President Trump stated that the war with Iran is nearing its end and that petrol prices will drop once it concludes, claiming to be involved in negotiations. However, Iran denies direct talks with the US, stating they are only speaking with Oman regarding control of the Strait of Hormuz. Reports suggest Iran is considering a bill to bar US and Israeli vessels from the strait. Experts express skepticism about the likelihood of a swift end to the conflict, citing a pattern of Trump's threats followed by cancellations and a lack of trust in US commitments from Iran. While Iran and Oman have agreed on shipping route coordinates, resolving the Strait of Hormuz issue is seen as separate from broader US-Iran war talks.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for recent deadly attacks that killed dozens of civilians and troops and targeted Saudi tankers. These attacks, occurring in northeastern Yemen and on Saudi-backed military camps, aim to lift the Saudi blockade on Yemen. The Houthis have also declared a blockade on Saudi-linked ships leaving the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical waterway for global trade. This escalation, linked to regional developments, is stoking fears of a wider conflict, as disruptions to Bab el-Mandeb could significantly impact commercial shipping and oil supply, similar to past incidents in the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis state their actions are in retaliation for the Saudi siege and recent attacks on their capital.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis killed at least 58 government troops on Thursday in missile and drone attacks, marking one of the deadliest days of the civil war in four years. The Houthis stated these attacks were in response to an alleged Saudi Arabian-backed military build-up. These actions occur as Yemen becomes more involved in the broader US-Israeli conflict with Iran, with the rebels intensifying attacks on both Yemeni government forces and neighboring Saudi Arabia. The article notes Saudi Arabia is a key US ally and supports the internationally recognized Yemeni government.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on a one-day working visit to Saudi Arabia to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The visit, Erdogan's second to the kingdom this year, comes amid regional tensions, particularly following the US-Israel war on Iran. Discussions are expected to focus on bilateral relations and regional developments, with reports suggesting a potential trilateral defense pact between the three nations. This follows Saudi Arabia's recent unveiling of a maritime security initiative, which both Turkiye and Pakistan have backed. The timing also coincides with ongoing upheaval in the Strait of Hormuz and heightened tensions with the Houthis in Yemen.

Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has accused US President Donald Trump of engaging in "theater diplomacy on loop." Ghalibaf stated this in response to Trump's repeated announcements of planned attacks on Iran, which were subsequently called off. Trump had claimed that a deal was close to being reached, promising the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Ghalibaf dismissed these claims, characterizing the US approach as a failed pressure tactic involving bullying, broken promises, and fake news. He urged the US to acknowledge facts and fulfill its commitments. The article also mentions Iran's ongoing talks with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting a deal is nearing finalization.

Iran is reportedly seeking to bar US and Israeli ships from the Strait of Hormuz and demand compensation from "hostile countries" for its use, as part of a proposed deal with Oman to manage the waterway. This agreement is seen as crucial for reopening Hormuz and resuming energy flows, which have been impacted since alleged attacks by the US and Israel on Iran in February. The proposed deal, currently under review in Iran's parliament, also includes a ban on Israeli-related cargo and a fee structure for services. This development has led to concerns from former US officials about escalating demands. Separately, Iranian naval forces reportedly struck "hostile targets" near the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to a rise in oil prices and a fall in stocks.

Houthi rebels reportedly killed at least 30 Yemeni government forces in attacks on military camps in central Yemen's Marib and Hadramawt provinces. The Houthis stated they launched missiles and drones targeting "large Saudi military build-ups" preparing for an offensive. The Yemeni Health Minister condemned the attack as "treacherous" and aimed at destabilizing security. The US mission to Yemen called the attacks "cowardly terrorism." This incident occurs amidst Yemen's ongoing civil war, which began in 2014 and has resulted in widespread death and a severe humanitarian crisis.

Houthi rebels launched missile and drone attacks on Yemeni government military camps in Hadramout and Marib governorates, resulting in at least 30 government soldiers killed and 15 injured. These attacks, occurring on Thursday, represent the deadliest escalation in Yemen's civil war since 2022. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed hundreds of casualties and stated the attacks were a response to government military build-ups and perceived escalations. Yemeni military sources confirmed the attacks, specifying that eight missiles were fired from al-Jawf governorate. The fighting between the Houthis and Saudi-backed government forces has intensified recently after a period of relative calm, with both sides mobilizing their forces.

Houthi rebel attacks on Thursday in Yemen's Marib and Hadhramaut provinces killed at least 30 government troops and wounded over 50 others. These assaults targeted camps of forces loyal to the internationally recognized government. This marks a significant escalation since a de facto truce began in April 2022. While Yemen's army confirmed Houthi attacks on its camps, it did not provide casualty figures. The Houthis have not commented directly on the incident but indicated a statement regarding a "major" military operation would be released. The ongoing civil war in Yemen began in 2014 when Houthis seized the capital, leading to intervention by a Saudi-led coalition.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Saudi Arabia for two days to seek economic backing and discuss regional security amid heightened Gulf tensions. Accompanied by key ministers and the army chief, Sharif will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to strengthen bilateral ties and coordinate on international affairs. This visit follows Pakistan's recent joining of a Saudi-led Red Sea naval coalition aimed at securing shipping routes and occurs amidst fragile US-Iran diplomacy, where Pakistan acts as a mediator. The agenda includes trade, defense, and maritime security, with a focus on the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed last year, which commits both nations to mutual defense. The visit reflects Pakistan's effort to balance its role as a security partner to Riyadh, a mediator between Washington and Tehran, and its exposure to regional instability.

Iran and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and LNG supplies. The agreement, which involves establishing agreed-upon shipping routes, is described by Iran as being in the final drafting stage, pending a joint statement. However, US officials state they will not accept any arrangement that places Iran in control of the strait, emphasizing that any temporary routes should not require permits or fees. While Iran claims negotiations are solely with Oman and insists the US naval blockade must be lifted for the strait to reopen, the US rejects Iranian control over traffic. This deal does not signify an end to broader tensions between Iran and the US.

Iran has announced that a deal with Oman to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is nearing finalization. Reports indicate that under this proposed agreement, Tehran would control inbound traffic. An understanding has been reached on the coordinates for a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Separately, Donald Trump has responded to media reports about US weapon shortages, stating the US has substantial munitions and is increasing manufacturing, while vowing to prosecute those who leaked such information. The article also mentions overnight Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon that injured eight people.

US Vice President JD Vance defended the Trump administration's negotiations with Iran, describing the process as complex and uneven due to Iran's difficult nature and fractured government. Vance stated that some within Iran desire an end to the war, while others, whom he characterized as "crazy radicals," wish for it to continue. He emphasized the administration's goal of navigating these internal divisions to achieve the best outcome for the American people and the President. Vance acknowledged that progress in negotiations can appear inconsistent.

Iran, Oman, and the US are reportedly close to an interim agreement aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supplies. Negotiations, mediated by Oman, seek to restore a June ceasefire, resolve shipping disputes, and create space for broader talks on Iran's nuclear program. US President Trump expressed optimism about a deal being imminent, while Iran denies direct talks with Washington, stating discussions are with Oman regarding the strait's management. Tensions remain high, with a recent incident involving a struck cargo ship and significantly disrupted commercial traffic. The core of the negotiations involves who controls the strait and Iran's potential to impose fees, with mediators working to balance shipping resumption with the security concerns of Iran and Oman.

Iran and Oman have reached an understanding on the geographic coordinates for a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, with a joint announcement being finalized, according to Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson. This agreement, if not interfered with by third parties, would give Tehran control over ships entering the Gulf. However, Iran stated that this bilateral agreement alone would not guarantee the waterway's security. The deal is seen as a potential step towards a broader ceasefire with the United States, which could reopen the strait for marine traffic and lift a US blockade on Iranian ports. Sources indicated that while negotiations are progressing, important details still need to be agreed upon, and assertions of an imminent reopening of the strait by the US were pushed back.

Iran and Oman have agreed on a route for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz and are finalizing arrangements for joint management of the passage, according to Iran's foreign ministry. This agreement comes after Iran reportedly seized de facto control of the strait following the start of a war against the country on February 28. Iran denies claims by US President Donald Trump that it is seeking a deal to reopen the route, stating instead that it is making arrangements with Oman. The geographical coordinates for the agreed route have been finalized, and a joint statement detailing the agreements is in the final drafting stage, provided no third parties obstruct the process.

Iran has announced it is in the final stages of an agreement with Oman to establish a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions with the United States, which Iran claims is responsible for insecurity in the strait due to naval blockades and aggressive actions. The new route is described as temporary, potentially lasting two to four months. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has decreased since the start of a conflict, with Iran previously stating that all passage requires prior clearance and has attacked vessels that did not comply. A previous Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the US aimed at resolving issues in the strait and ending a war quickly failed.