The wait for an Iranian deal with Oman on the Strait of Hormuz dragged on, as the Islamic Republic’s top envoy ruled out direct talks with the US for now. Read More: Vance Says US in ‘Middle of the Game’ in Iran ConflictWashington has repeatedly suggested it’s part of negotiations over the management of Hormuz, which Iran disputes. Oman, within whose territorial waters the strait also lies, said its talks with Iran were progressing in “a positive and constructive atmosphere.” Any Hormuz deal will need the approval of Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who hasn’t been seen in public since the start of the war. Months of conflict have left thousands of people dead, mainly in Iran, and are shaking up security arrangements across the region.