US urges Iran to confirm safety of commercial ships in Strait of Hormuz

Washington is reportedly urging Tehran to issue a public assurance that it will not target commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which roughly a fifth of global oil shipments pass. The diplomatic push follows a series of recent confrontations in the region, including attacks on merchant ships that have heightened concerns among international shipping firms and energy markets.

U.S. officials have said the statement would help stabilize trade routes and reduce the risk of escalation between the United States and Iran, which have been at odds over Tehran’s nuclear program and regional activities. By securing a clear, written commitment from Iran, Washington aims to reassure allies and commercial operators while maintaining pressure for broader de‑escalation measures in the strategically vital corridor.