US leaders say talks have made progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway carries much of the world's oil shipments.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US hopes to reach a deal soon. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a deal could come by tomorrow.

Qatar said draft agreement language was being shared between sides. Iran and Oman have also made progress in separate talks.

Their talks aim to restore shipping through the same waterway. But Iran has publicly denied holding direct talks with the US.

This contrasts with the confident statements from US officials. Trump claimed Iran and other countries had asked for talks.

Bessent told television network CNBC the US is talking with Iran. He echoed Trump's statement that talks were happening right now.

The gap between US confidence and Iran's denial raises questions. The deal may not be as close as US officials suggest.

Under the emerging plan ships would enter the Persian Gulf through a route controlled by Iran. They would exit through a separate route controlled by Oman.

Security fees would be charged along the way. Oil prices fell on hopes the strait could reopen soon.