Ankara: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Tuesday that negotiations between Washington and Tehran regarding passage through critical international waterways have not yet been finalized. However, he expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached 'very shortly.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Rubio's comments came amid reports and remarks from senior US officials suggesting that both sides are nearing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio stated to reporters at the State Department that 'there's been progress made in those talks, but not finality yet,' emphasizing the hope for a swift resolution.

Rubio noted that despite efforts to obstruct passage, some commercial vessels have successfully transited the area. He mentioned ongoing conversations and negotiations involving Oman and Iran aimed at ensuring more ships can safely navigate the straits in the short term.

He confirmed that oil is currently moving through the straits, referring to the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb waterway. The latter, positioned between Yemen and the Horn of Africa, connects the Gulf of Aden with the Red Sea and serves as a vital corridor for vessels traveling between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe through the Suez Canal. This development follows threats from Yemen's Houthi group targeting vessels linked to Saudi Arabian ports.

Earlier on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that discussions with Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz were active, with the potential for an agreement to reopen the strategic waterway as early as Tuesday or Wednesday. Rubio added that while the straits' agreement is gaining attention, the US remains focused on securing a comprehensive deal with Iran concerning denuclearization.