The United States has issued a firm demand for Iran to publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz open and safe for commercial navigation, requiring Tehran to guarantee that vessels passing through the chokepoint will not be attacked.
The ultimatum, reported by Axios, marks a sharp escalation in diplomatic pressure as Washington seeks to secure one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.
The demand comes amid heightened tensions over shipping security in the region.
US officials are insisting that Iran commit to stopping attacks on commercial vessels, a condition that would directly impact global oil flows and freight insurance premiums.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a vital artery for global energy trade, with any disruption posing immediate risks to Brent crude prices and tanker freight rates.
This development follows a series of incidents that have reignited fears over shipping risk in the corridor.