Iran must pledge to stop shooting at ships in Strait of Hormuz, US officials say

What Happened

The United States demanded that Iran publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz open and pledge to stop firing on commercial vessels, following attacks on three tankers in Omani waters earlier this week. US officials told CBS News that Iran privately acknowledged the shootings were a mistake, blaming a rogue hardliner faction seeking to undermine negotiations. President Trump stated on Truth Social that the ceasefire is over but talks would continue. Vice President Vance, Secretary of State Rubio, and envoys Witkoff and Kushner are en route to Oman, where Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also present for indirect talks. A Qatari delegation separately traveled to Iran to defuse tensions. Trump warned that failure to issue the statement would bring 'not a good outcome' for Iran. Separately, new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed inevitable vengeance for his father's killing in an Israeli strike on 28 February, while Trump denied reports of a fresh Iranian assassination plot against him.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20% of global oil and LNG transit. Escalation there risks major energy market disruption and could unravel the fragile June ceasefire, rekindling direct US-Iran military confrontation. The incident also exposes internal Iranian factional dynamics that could subvert diplomatic agreements, while the new Supreme Leader's vow of revenge adds a layer of potential regional instability.

Watch For

Outcome of the Oman talks—specifically whether Iran issues the demanded statement. Any further attacks on shipping in the Strait or US-Iran military exchanges. Trump's response if Iran fails to comply, given his declaration that the ceasefire is over. Possible actions linked to Mojtaba Khamenei's pledge to avenge his father's killing.