Ships have begun moving through the Strait of Hormuz, according to United States President Donald Trump, as Washington and Tehran prepare to formally sign a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the conflict between Iran and the US-Israeli alliance.
Trump said vessels carrying oil were using a southern shipping route through Omani waters that he described as safe and secure.
The comments came days before a planned signing ceremony in Switzerland for an agreement that both sides say will reopen the Strait of Hormuz, lift the US naval blockade on Iranian ports and halt military operations across multiple fronts.
While the framework agreement has been announced, its full text has not yet been made public.
More complex issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, frozen assets and regional alliances, are expected to be negotiated during a 60-day follow-up period.
Despite signs of maritime movement, a US military advisory stated that the naval blockade on Iranian ports remains in force until the formal signing of the agreement on Friday.
The advisory warned vessels against attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports until further instructions are issued.
US Vice President JD Vance said the memorandum had already been signed digitally on Sunday, indicating that the framework is largely settled ahead of the public ceremony.
The continued blockade highlights the transitional nature of the agreement, with several provisions yet to be fully implemented.
Industry officials and maritime security experts cautioned that a return to normal shipping operations could take months even if the waterway is fully reopened.
Mine-clearing operations are expected to continue for between 40 and 50 days before many insurers and shipping companies regain confidence in the route.
The International Chamber of Shipping said around 500 vessels and approximately 20,000 crew members remain stranded awaiting passage through the strait.
Questions also remain about the future administration of the waterway.
While Vance said he expects the strait to remain toll-free, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei indicated that fees for maritime services would be discussed as part of future negotiations.
The unresolved issue underscores the strategic importance of the strait, a key global energy corridor that has remained central to negotiations between Washington and Tehran.