The United States has issued a firm demand that Iran publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz open to navigation and guarantee that commercial vessels passing through the chokepoint will not be attacked.
The ultimatum, reported by TASS citing Reuters, marks a sharp escalation in diplomatic pressure as Washington seeks a formal commitment from Tehran to secure one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.
The demand comes amid ongoing tensions that have kept shipping risk premiums elevated in global energy markets.
By insisting on a public declaration rather than private assurances, the US administration is signaling that the current level of ambiguity regarding vessel safety is unacceptable.
The move underscores the strategic importance of the strait, through which a significant portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows, and highlights the growing friction between Washington and Tehran over maritime security.
This development follows a series of incidents that have disrupted trade flows and prompted rerouting of vessels, as seen in recent data showing increased port volumes in the Mediterranean as shippers seek alternatives.