CAIRO (AP) — Iran and the Gulf Arab state of Oman have made progress toward a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a potential breakthrough that could help wind down the war in the Middle East, regional officials said Tuesday. Any agreement formalizing Iran’s control of the strait would mark a significant strategic victory for Tehran. The strait was an open international waterway before the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28. The potential agreement between Iran and Oman was first reported by The New York Times. Iran has denied it is negotiating with the U.S., saying the talks are only with Oman.