The top U.S. military commander in the Middle East has recommended halting bombing operations in the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports from Axios.
The advice comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with President Donald Trump previously urging both sides to "immediately stop shooting" to prevent further escalation.
The recommendation marks a significant shift in the military posture toward the narrow waterway, which serves as a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies.
Any disruption to transit through the strait poses immediate risks to oil flows and freight rates, making the potential pause in hostilities a critical development for energy markets.
This development follows recent reports that Iran and Oman have made progress on managing shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting a coordinated effort to stabilize the corridor.
The U.S. military’s stance aligns with broader diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict, including Trump’s reported advice to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from retaliating against Iran.