The United States is demanding that Iran publicly guarantee that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open and that commercial ships will not be attacked. The demand follows incidents involving tankers and renewed military strikes by both sides. The strait is one of the world's most important energy corridors, carrying large quantities of oil and liquefied natural gas. American officials say a clear commitment is necessary before a wider diplomatic agreement can move forward. Iran says it has legitimate security interests in the waterway and has accused the United States of escalating the conflict through military pressure and sanctions.
