As tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to simmer, the US on the 9th of February issued new guidelines for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reports.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key shipping route for oil from the Middle East, and Iran has previously threatened to close the strait. Part of the strait lies in Iranian territorial waters, and Iranian forces have repeatedly seized commercial ships and oil tankers suspected of smuggling.
The new guidelines recommend that US-flagged vessels maintain the maximum possible distance from Iranian territorial waters and loudly refuse Iranian officials boarding if they are asked for permission. However, the ship’s crew should not use force to resist if Iranians do board the vessel.
A senior diplomat said on the 6th of February that
Oman-led talks with the United States on a nuclear deal had begun successfully and were set to continue,
in an effort to ease concerns that a breakdown in talks could bring the Middle East closer to war.
While both sides have signaled a willingness to restore diplomatic ties over Tehran’s nuclear program, Washington has also indicated it wants to negotiate over Iran’s ballistic missile program, support for militant groups in the region and human rights. US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Tehran, imposing a 25% import tax on countries that directly or indirectly buy products from Iran.
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