Iran and the United States have reportedly agreed to ease the naval blockade of Iran in return for a gradual resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Pakistan-based sources cited by Saudi Arabia’s Al Arabiya TV.

"An agreement has been reached regarding easing the blockade in exchange for a gradual opening of the Strait of Hormuz," sources told the channel, adding that intensive contacts are currently underway on this issue, and that "a breakthrough in resolving the issue of ships blocked in the strait is expected in the coming hours," The Caspian Post reports, citing TASS.

That said, Al Arabiya’s sources noted that "there are currently no agreements on direct meetings between the Iranians and the Americans," with contacts continuing through intermediaries. US President Donald Trump has also requested the Iranian side’s fastest possible response to Washington’s de-escalation proposal, the sources added. The negotiation process is proceeding smoothly, the TV channel said, adding that "Iran could convey its response to Pakistani mediators as early as today.".