Iran and Oman have outlined a phased framework to establish a temporary shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz and clear mines, but Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the yet-to-be-finalized deal would close the southern route along Oman’s coast, a UN-authorized channel Tehran vehemently opposes. The proposal follows weeks of negotiations over shipping in the strategic waterway, where oil flows have continued despite Iran’s insistence that the strait is closed. The United States says the waterway is international and has warned shipping companies and countries dealing with Iran of sanctions or penalties. Under the Trump administration’s Operation Economic Outcast, the Treasury Department is targeting more than 60 entities, individuals and vessels across the digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping sectors. China says the measures will intensify tensions, while Iranian officials vow that Washington’s economic pressure will fail.