Gulf–Iran talks eye Oman plan to reopen Hormuz without U.S. at the table

Gulf diplomats and Iranian officials will meet to discuss an Oman-backed plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for regular tanker traffic, but the United States will not attend the initial talks. The framework reportedly considers tolls or voluntary fees for navigational safety and environmental protection and aims to map routes through the strait. Washington says any progress hinges on broader discussions with Iran over its nuclear program, while regional players push for a long‑term solution even without U.S. participation; analysts warn a breakthrough is unlikely without the U.S. at the table.