What's holding up the Iran-Oman proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz

Key Points:

• Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, pledging mutual defense similar to NATO's Article 5, signaling a new regional security partnership independent of the U.S.
• A potential deal between the U.S. and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly close midweek, involving lane usage and demining, but ultimately collapsed due to Iran's Revolutionary Guard demanding additional concessions such as lifting sanctions and allowing oil sales in dollars.
• Iranian hardliners, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, are believed to be driving a strategy favoring escalation over engagement to ensure regime survival and to challenge the Trump administration, complicating diplomatic progress.
• Iranian officials blame the U.S. for failing to meet commitments and criticize ongoing "theater diplomacy," while analysts note that Iran's leadership is unified in resisting pressure and playing for time in negotiations.
• The new Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan defense pact reflects regional concerns about U.S. leadership and Iran's growing influence, with these countries seeking alternative security arrangements amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf.