US expects Iran-Oman Hormuz deal; three nations sign defense pact

Some countries are having a big disagreement that has turned into a war involving Iran and the United States.

The fighting includes a very important waterway called the Strait of Hormuz, where many ships carrying oil sail.

Because of the war, it became hard for these ships to pass, and the United States put a blockade on ports in Iran.

Now, American officials say Iran and Oman are close to a deal that would let ships sail through the strait normally again.

The United States says that if safe shipping returns, it will remove the blockade of Iranian ports.

Iran's state media says it has agreed on a basic plan, or framework, with Oman, but top leaders still have to give the final approval.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan promised to help each other if any of them is attacked.

This promise was made because Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been attacking things linked to Saudi Arabia.

The United States also punished six companies and one person by imposing sanctions linked to what it says is Iran's digital money network.

Sanctions mean those companies and that person now face restrictions from the United States.