US demands Iran pledge to stop shooting at ships in Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions

The United States is demanding that Iran publicly commit to ceasing attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and guaranteeing open, toll-free passage for all shipping. This ultimatum follows reports of Iran attacking three commercial ships in the vital waterway this week, which reportedly violates a memorandum of understanding signed in mid-June aimed at de-escalating tensions and ensuring safe transit.

Despite an escalation that included US retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets, Iran has privately indicated to US officials that the recent incidents were due to an "errant part of their system" and an internal power struggle. While President Trump has declared the ceasefire over, both nations are engaging in ongoing diplomatic efforts, including scheduled talks in Oman, with the US also pressing Iran on broader nuclear material issues.