The United States on Monday issued updated guidance for commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for Middle East oil supplies, as tensions with Iran continue over its nuclear program.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration advised U.S.-flagged vessels to keep as far from Iranian territorial waters as safely possible and to verbally decline permission to board if approached by Iranian forces. Crews were instructed not to resist forcibly if boarding occurs.
“It is recommended that U.S.-flagged commercial vessels transiting these waters remain as far as possible from Iran’s territorial sea without compromising navigational safety,” the guidance said.
The Strait of Hormuz has long been a flashpoint in U.S.-Iran relations. Iran has previously threatened to close the waterway and has at times seized commercial ships and oil tankers, citing smuggling concerns.
Despite the heightened tensions, Iranian officials said nuclear talks mediated by Oman were off to a positive start and are set to continue. While both Washington and Tehran have expressed willingness to revive diplomacy, the U.S. has emphasized that discussions should also address Iran’s ballistic missile program, regional support for armed groups, and human rights issues.
President Donald Trump escalated pressure on Tehran last week with an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on imports from any country that trades with Iran, signaling continued economic and diplomatic pressure alongside maritime warnings.
