US Demands Iran Clear Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions
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.
