US wants Iran to pledge to stop shooting at ships in Strait of Hormuz

July 11, 2026

The United States is demanding that Iran publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz open and commit to ceasing attacks on commercial vessels ahead of negotiations scheduled in Oman. Iranian officials have privately admitted to US advisers that recent attacks on ships were mistakes caused by rogue hardline groups, though Iran publicly claims it has upheld the ceasefire while accusing America of violations. Senior US officials including Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead Saturday's talks, warning that Iran must provide the requested statement or face negative consequences.

Who is affected

Commercial ships and their crews using the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian government and leadership
United States government officials and negotiating team
President Donald Trump (subject of alleged assassination plots)
Regional mediators including Qatar and Oman
Israel (sharing intelligence with the US)
Gulf states involved in maritime administration discussions

What action is being taken

The US is conveying demands through regional mediators requiring Iran to release a statement declaring the strait open and pledging to stop shooting at commercial ships
A delegation from Qatar is traveling to Iran for talks aimed at defusing tensions
Negotiations between US and Iranian officials are scheduled to take place in Oman on Saturday
Iran and the US are continuing indirect talks despite recent fighting

Why it matters

This situation is significant because the Strait of Hormuz is a critical international waterway for commercial shipping, and attacks on vessels threaten global maritime commerce and regional stability. The ceasefire violations undermine a fragile peace agreement established in June and risk escalating into broader military conflict between the US and Iran. The negotiations represent a crucial opportunity to prevent further violence and restore safe passage through one of the world's most strategically important shipping routes.

What's next

Negotiations are scheduled to be held in Oman on Saturday with US officials (Vice-President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner) and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi
Iran and Oman must hold talks "to define the future administration and maritime services" in the strait with other Gulf states as part of the existing agreement
Iran is expected to provide a statement declaring the strait open and pledging to stop shooting at commercial ships

Read full article from source: BBC