WASHINGTON / MIDDLE EAST – Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will continue to attack Iranian vessels if they pose a threat to shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, while asserting that this transit route will soon be reopened for international maritime activity. In a post on Truth Social, President Trump stated that U.S. forces would continue to destroy Iranian boats and ships if they posed a risk to oil transport in the region. He also called on several nations with energy interests in the area, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, to deploy warships to coordinate the protection of this strategic transport route. The Strait of Hormuz is considered a critical global energy transit point, with approximately 20% of global seaborne oil passing through the region.

U.S. has not yet accepted ceasefire negotiations

Meanwhile, according to a report from Reuters, the Trump administration has not currently accepted efforts from several Middle Eastern nations to open ceasefire negotiations with Iran. Officials from Oman and Egypt have sought to push for dialogue between Washington and Tehran to pause the fighting. However, sources indicate that Washington is prioritizing the continuation of military operations to weaken Iran's military capabilities rather than seeking a temporary cessation of hostilities. On Tehran's side, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran has received requests from many countries to ensure the safety of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He said some vessels have been permitted to pass through the route, but the final decision remains with Iran's military leadership. Iran had previously declared that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping but warned of the possibility of restricted access for the U.S. and its allies.

Vatican calls for a ceasefire

In a related development, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict involving Iran. Speaking at the Vatican following the Sunday midday blessing, the Pope expressed concern over attacks on residential areas, hospitals, and schools. He referenced an attack on a school in Iran that killed more than 165 people, many of whom were children. Pope Leo XIV urged all parties to end the fighting and reopen channels of dialogue, stating that violence cannot bring lasting stability or peace to the region. The Vatican also expressed concern about the situation in Lebanon, where humanitarian organizations have warned of a potential humanitarian crisis if the conflict continues to spread. Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated that the Holy See remains in contact with various parties, including the U.S. and Israel, to seek a diplomatic solution to the crisis.

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