IRAN-OMAN HORMUZ DEAL NEARS COMPLETION Iran says an agreement with Oman on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is nearly finalized. The proposed framework could reopen the strait, with ships entering near Iran and exiting near Oman, reportedly without fees or tolls during an interim period. A final joint statement is still being negotiated. The key question is whether the agreement will satisfy Washington, which wants the strait reopened before ending its blockade of Iranian ports.(*Walter Bloomberg)