**US Urges Iran to Commit to Safe Passage in Strait of Hormuz Amid Ongoing Negotiations**
**Washington, DC** – The United States is pressing Iran to publicly affirm that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for navigation and to commit to ceasing fire on commercial vessels. This demand comes ahead of negotiations scheduled for Saturday, which will involve high-level officials from both nations.
According to reports from US media sources citing unnamed officials, Tehran has privately acknowledged to advisers of President Donald Trump that recent attacks on ships were a mistake. However, Iranian officials have attributed the incidents to a rogue faction within their military, suggesting internal dissent may be undermining broader diplomatic efforts.
In June, the US and Iran had previously signed a ceasefire agreement that included provisions for ensuring safe passage for commercial shipping through the strategically vital waterway. Despite this, tensions escalated this week when multiple vessels were struck while navigating a route recommended by US authorities. Iran has consistently maintained that the only secure passage for ships is through its own waters, complicating navigation for international vessels.
During a briefing for reporters, US officials communicated that a message had been sent to Iran’s leadership through regional intermediaries. They emphasized that a clear statement from Tehran declaring the Strait of Hormuz open and a pledge to halt attacks on commercial ships is essential for the continuation of productive negotiations. One official remarked, “They’re either going to give us that statement or we’re not having a good outcome for them,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Negotiations are set to be led by prominent figures including Vice-President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and special envoy Steve Witkoff, along with Jared Kushner, who has been involved in Middle Eastern diplomatic efforts. These talks are expected to take place in Oman, a nation that has historically acted as a mediator in regional disputes.
In a related development, a delegation from Qatar arrived in Iran on Friday for discussions aimed at de-escalating tensions and facilitating navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing diplomatic efforts underscore the critical nature of the waterway, which is a key transit route for global oil supplies.
President Trump, in a post on social media platform Truth Social, acknowledged Iran’s request to continue negotiations but reiterated that the ceasefire is no longer in effect. He stated, “The Islamic Republic of Iran has asked us to continue 'talks.' We have agreed to do so, but the United States has stated to them, in no uncertain terms, that the Cease Fire is OVER!”
The recent flare-up in hostilities marks the most significant exchange of fire between the US and Iran since the signing of the interim deal in June. The situation remains precarious, with no new attacks reported following the initial incidents earlier this week.
As part of the broader context, last month saw the US and Iran agree on a 14-point memorandum of understanding aimed at extending the ceasefire and working towards resolving conflicts across various fronts. This agreement also called for Iran and Oman to engage in discussions regarding the future administration and maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz, with the involvement of other Gulf states.
Iran has been asserting its sovereignty over the strait, proposing the establishment of a “Persian Gulf Strait Authority” to manage safe passage permits for vessels. Reports from Iran’s Fars news agency indicate that under the new arrangement with the US, Iran will coordinate with Oman to manage the strait, which may include the implementation of service fees for ships transiting the waterway.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of international concern, given its significance to global trade and energy supplies. As negotiations continue, the potential for further escalation or a diplomatic resolution hangs in the balance, with both sides navigating a complex landscape of regional power dynamics and security interests.