Iran and Oman have agreed on a shipping route map for the Strait of Hormuz after weeks of technical negotiations, with Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei saying the two coastal states made progress under a June 18 memorandum of understanding aimed at establishing safe navigation routes. Baghaei said the arrangement is an independent agreement between Tehran and Muscat designed to ensure safe passage while preserving both countries' sovereignty, though the sides are still discussing outstanding issues including a joint statement. He also said that full restoration of security in the strait and the resumption of normal commercial shipping still depend on an end to what he described as illegal U.S. actions, military threats and a naval blockade, as well as compensation for alleged U.S. breaches of commitments over the past two months. Iran has separately said any decision to reopen the strategic waterway remains contingent on the U.S. fulfilling its obligations under the memorandum. The move comes after months of conflict and repeated attacks on shipping in Hormuz and the wider Middle East, where the International Maritime Organization said 65 vessel-related incidents had been confirmed and 17 seafarers had died as of Aug. 11. Brent crude rose almost 6% this week as hopes for a quick resolution faded, while regional violence and pressure on Tehran continue to threaten energy flows and maritime security.