Iran keeps Hormuz shut as Oman deal nears and UAE ship is hit

Iran said it is close to an agreement with Oman on a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz but will not reopen the waterway on that step alone, keeping pressure on a corridor critical to global energy flows. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said technical and legal questions over a permanent route remain, while Iranian officials linked any reopening to broader U.S. moves including compensation, an end to threats and relief from sanctions. The United Arab Emirates separately said Iran hit a carrier tied to state oil company ADNOC with a missile while it was transiting the strait; no injuries were reported. Oman called talks with Iran positive and constructive and urged against actions that could disrupt negotiations.