Washington: US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to publicly guarantee the safety of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz ahead of a new round of negotiations scheduled in Oman. The White House is seeking a commitment from Tehran to keep the strategic waterway open and stop attacks on commercial vessels following recent tensions that threatened a ceasefire agreement reached in June.
According to US officials, Washington wants Iran to issue a public statement confirming that commercial ships can safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The administration is also seeking an acknowledgement that recent attacks on commercial vessels were a mistake. Trump said both sides had agreed to continue negotiations despite this week’s confrontation, although the White House viewed the attacks on shipping as a breach of the ceasefire.
Reports citing US officials said Iranian representatives had privately informed Trump’s advisers that the attacks on commercial ships were the result of actions by a rogue internal group rather than official government policy. Iran has not publicly accepted responsibility, but Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran had honoured the ceasefire agreement while accusing the United States of violating its commitments.
The talks in Oman are expected to be led by US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while Araqchi is expected to represent Iran. Oman will continue to serve as a mediator as both countries attempt to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.
The latest diplomatic efforts follow attacks on three commercial vessels using a US-recommended shipping route through Omani waters. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important maritime corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil exports, making security in the region a major concern for international trade and energy markets.
Trump also warned that the United States would respond forcefully to any future threats against American interests, while both sides prepare for the Oman negotiations. The outcome of the talks is expected to influence regional stability, the security of international shipping and the uninterrupted flow of global energy supplies.
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