US gives Iran ultimatum over Strait of Hormuz

[No verifiable date for Oman talks; no market reaction data; no expert quote available.]

Officials said the US on July 11 issued an ultimatum asking Iran to publicly denounce recent attacks on vessels and provide guarantees of unfettered passage through the Strait of Hormuz, ahead of talks planned in Oman. Reaction pending.

Talks planned in Oman

Officials said Washington has made a public denouncement and a guarantee of free navigation explicit preconditions for de-escalation. The demand frames the upcoming diplomatic exchanges as tests of Iran’s willingness to accept operational safeguards for commercial shipping.

Officials said the agenda in Oman will focus on security assurances and mechanisms to prevent repeat incidents in the strait. The waterway is a strategic maritime corridor, and officials said ensuring unimpeded transit is central to regional stability and global energy and trade flows.

Officials said Washington tied the ultimatum to its broader diplomatic outreach in the Gulf, asking Oman to host discussions between delegations. Observers will watch whether Iran issues a formal reply and whether the talks produce verifiable steps to keep shipping lanes open.

Officials said delegations are expected to meet in Oman later this week; a public Iranian response is likely to be monitored within days.