**US Demands Iran Declare Strait of Hormuz Fully Open Amid Ongoing Tensions**
The United States has issued a demand to Iran, requiring the nation to publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz fully reopened for navigation and to pledge not to attack tankers traversing the critical waterway. This strategic strait is vital for global trade, as it facilitates approximately a quarter of the world’s seaborne oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments.
The request comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations, following a series of confrontations over differing interpretations of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on June 17. This agreement was intended to outline the management of the Strait of Hormuz, but recent events have led to clashes, including strikes exchanged between the US and Iran over the past week. The US and several Gulf states have accused Iran of being responsible for attacks on three commercial vessels.
A US official, speaking to reporters, emphasized the expectation that Iran will affirm the opening of all channels in the strait and ensure that navigation through the area remains toll-free. “We expect the Iranians to say... that every channel in the strait will be open and that it will be toll-free,” the official stated, as reported by Axios.
Negotiators from both countries are set to meet in Oman on Saturday, where US officials anticipate that Iran will issue a statement agreeing to the outlined terms. However, one US official warned that if Iran does not comply, it could lead to significant repercussions for the Iranian government. “If it is not their position [tomorrow], it is not gonna be a great day for them,” the official remarked.
In a related development, US President Donald Trump took to social media platform Truth Social, announcing that negotiations would continue but also declaring that “the Cease Fire is OVER!” His statement underscores the precarious nature of the current diplomatic situation.
In response, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei refuted Trump’s assertion that Tehran had sought a new round of negotiations. He indicated that any violations of the ceasefire by the US would prompt “reciprocal action” from Iran. This sentiment reflects the ongoing distrust between the two nations, with Iranian officials expressing skepticism regarding American intentions.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to travel to Oman for discussions with regional mediators, as the situation continues to unfold. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s chief negotiator, articulated Tehran's position on Friday, stating that the nation remains “distrustful of the Americans” and asserting that “the Iranian nation will never submit to oppression.”
The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of geopolitical tensions, especially since Iran closed it to most shipping following a US-Israeli attack on February 28. Since then, Tehran has insisted that all vessels adhere to its directives and utilize designated shipping routes.
Under the terms of the MoU, Iran committed to making arrangements for the safe passage of commercial vessels for a period of 60 days and to engage in negotiations with Oman regarding the future administration of the Strait of Hormuz. The current situation raises concerns about the potential for further conflict in a region that is crucial for global energy supplies.
As the deadline for Iran's declaration approaches, the international community watches closely, aware that the outcome could have significant implications for maritime security and global oil markets. The stakes are high, and the actions taken by both nations in the coming days will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of their relationship and the stability of the region.