US Officials Urge Iran to Declare Hormuz Strait Open

US officials on Saturday urged Iran to issue an official statement declaring the opening of navigation lanes in the Strait of Hormuz and to cease targeting passing vessels. The officials emphasized that Tehran's failure to issue a statement acknowledging the opening of the Strait's lanes would have adverse consequences not in its interest. They also stressed the necessity for Iran to commit to announcing a halt to firing on ships and to ensure freedom of international navigation through this vital waterway, warning of severe repercussions if these calls are not heeded.