United States gives Iran Saturday deadline to end Hormuz attacks

The Trump administration has delivered a firm ultimatum to Tehran, demanding that Iran publicly acknowledge that the Strait of Hormuz is open and cease all attacks on commercial vessels by Saturday. The request was communicated directly to Iranian officials and through regional mediators, with U.S. officials warning that non‑compliance would result in “a not‑good day” for Iran. In response, Iran’s foreign ministry has denied seeking negotiations, insisting it remains committed to safe passage in coordination with Oman, while Iranian leaders have described control of the Hormuz narrows as a “golden weapon” and warned of “overwhelming” retaliation if the United States interferes.

The dispute has already escalated militarily: the United States has conducted two rounds of strikes on Iranian targets after accusing Tehran of firing on three tankers, and Iran has retaliated against U.S. bases in Gulf states. The International Maritime Organisation condemned Iran’s attempt to claim sovereignty over the strait and urged member states not to recognise any Iranian traffic‑control body.

Commercial shipping through the waterway has slowed sharply, with only 22 vessels recorded in the most recent 24‑hour period, down from pre‑conflict levels of 125‑140 daily transits. The reduced traffic has kept oil prices elevated, underscoring the strategic importance of the Hormuz corridor for global energy supplies.