IRAN — Tehran has denied reports of direct negotiations with the United States as Iran and Oman move closer to reaching an agreement aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. Oman has emerged as a key mediator in efforts to facilitate an understanding between Iran and regional stakeholders. The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is a crucial maritime route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments pass. The developments follow growing international concern over tensions involving Iran, the United States and other regional powers. While Tehran has denied holding talks with Washington, diplomatic efforts surrounding the Strait of Hormuz agreement indicate continued attempts to avoid confrontation and maintain the flow of global energy supplies.