In brief
In the wake of recent shots fired at shipping, U.S. officials seek a formal statement from Tehran that the critical waterway remains open and will no longer be used as a launchpad for hostile acts. The call comes ahead of a summit in Oman slated for Saturday, with senior U.S. leaders and Middle East envoys in attendance. Iran has reportedly apologized for the incidents, attributing them to a rogue faction within its ranks. While no new attacks were recorded on Friday, the tensions underscore the fragile ceasefire that was brokered in June, ensuring safe passage for vessels. The discussions centre on restoring confidence and preventing further disruptions to global oil shipping.
The United States has urged Iran to issue a public statement affirming that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and that Tehran will stop firing on commercial vessels, according to unnamed senior officials. The message was delivered through regional mediators on the brink of a negotiation scheduled for Saturday in Oman.
Iran has reportedly acknowledged that the shots launched against shipping were mistakes, blaming a rogue hard‑liner group while pledging to resume talks. The U.S. says the aggression violates the ceasefire that was signed in June, which stipulated safe passage for all commercial traffic.
Key U.S. figures such as Vice‑President Kamala Harris, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, envoy Megan Davies, and former President Donald Trump's advisers are expected to lead the discussions. Qatar has also sent a delegation to Iran to help de‑escalate the situation.
No new attacks were reported on Friday after the recent flare‑up, but the incident marked the most intense exchange of fire between the two nations since the ceasefire. Three vessels were struck on a U.S.‑recommended route through Omani waters, while Iran insists that only its own lane offers safe passage.
The 14‑point memorandum of understanding signed last month aims to extend the ceasefire and end conflict on all fronts, including work on maritime governance in the Strait. Iran plans to cooperate with Oman to establish a joint authority, potentially charging service fees for ships transiting the waterway.
