Trump says agreement with Iran to reopen Strait of Hormuz 'could be soon'

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned Friday that a potential arrangement giving Iran and Oman roles in administering traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could be a "very bad outcome" for the United States.

Speaking on Fox News' "America Reports," Esper said reports indicate Tehran and Muscat are nearing an agreement that could divide passage through the strategic waterway, with a northern route into the Persian Gulf and a southern route along Oman's coast.

"They may or may not charge a fee, but they would administer and control it in one way, shape, or form, which would be a very bad outcome for us," Esper said.

Esper noted that President Donald Trump has said he is personally involved in negotiations, while Iranian officials have publicly disputed direct U.S. participation.

"I think what we're waiting for now is to find out, is there a deal between Oman and Iran, and to what degree did the United States play a role or has a role in it," Esper said.

Trump said Thursday that he was personally involved in the talks, adding that, "I think we're doing very well."

"I'm involved in the negotiation. I think we're doing fine. It could be. It could be soon," the president said regarding a potential deal to reopen the key Middle Eastern waterway.