US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that an agreement could be reached with Iran by Wednesday to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. He expressed hope that the deal would significantly ease the ongoing extreme volatility in global energy markets.
In an interview with media outlet CNBC, the US Treasury Secretary said, “We are talking to the Iranians. And I think we could reach an agreement to open Hormuz today or tomorrow. Through this, the conflict will also move toward a stable situation.”
Maritime traffic through this strategically crucial strait has been virtually halted since the outbreak of Iran-related conflict. Reports indicate that Tehran intends to collect tolls or transit fees from commercial vessels passing through the route.
When asked during the interview whether the proposed deal would allow Tehran to charge tolls, Bessent implied that commercial vessels would be able to navigate freely without restriction.
Earlier on Monday, US President Donald Trump claimed that the Strait of Hormuz could reopen within hours. At the same time, he announced the suspension of plans to launch new large-scale military strikes on Iran, although Tehran initially denied holding any discussions with Washington.
While Iran has not issued a new official statement, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the Treasury Secretary’s optimistic tone. He noted that Washington is actively engaged in ongoing direct and indirect talks between Oman and Iran, where significant progress has been made, adding that he expects a positive outcome soon.
