Israel-Gaza war and Iran‑Oman talks lead to reopening of the Strait of Hormuz

The Middle‑East conflict erupted on 28 February 2026 when the United States and Israel launched a joint strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, spiking oil prices and stranding roughly 2,000 vessels.

A Pakistan‑mediated cease‑fire took effect on 8 April, but naval skirmishes in the strait persisted. Recent negotiations have produced a peace agreement that will reopen the strategic waterway.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the Gaza Strip until Hamas is completely disarmed. The announcement followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim of a historic deal with Hamas for total disarmament, later confirmed with qualifications by the group.

Iran and Oman reported positive progress in talks on the future management of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, working on technical and political mechanisms to ensure safe passage for ships while respecting Iran’s sovereign rights.