The Trump administration has requested that Iran publicly acknowledge the openness of the Strait of Hormuz and commit to ceasing attacks on commercial vessels. This message was communicated directly and through regional mediators, according to three U.S. officials during a briefing on July 10, 2026.
The U.S. claims that Iran has violated a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed three weeks prior by firing on commercial ships in the strait, which has led to increased tensions and exchanges of fire. President Trump has indicated that the ceasefire associated with this agreement is no longer in effect.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to meet with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi in Muscat to discuss the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. Oman has recently aligned with U.S. and Gulf allies by facilitating a southern shipping channel, a move that Iran has opposed, asserting it undermines its negotiating position.
Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, stated that Araghchi's discussions will focus on maritime security and that Iran is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities regarding navigation in the strait. However, U.S. officials expect Iran to issue a statement following the Saturday meeting, confirming its commitment to stop attacks on ships.
A U.S. official indicated that Iran had reached out after recent skirmishes, expressing a desire to continue negotiations. However, Baghaei denied that Iran had initiated talks with the U.S., claiming that any discussions were at the request of Qatari mediators.
U.S. officials anticipate that if Iran does not comply with the demands, there will be significant consequences. They noted that while progress has been made toward a nuclear deal, the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz raises doubts about Iran's commitment to any agreements.