Iran Guards Assert Control Over Strait of Hormuz, US Vows to Shield Gulf Allies

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated on Thursday that all vessels seeking safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz must use routes designated by Tehran, and that any new route established without Iranian coordination is unacceptable and poses a safety risk. The statement comes amid ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran to end the conflict in West Asia.

Separately, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured Gulf allies on Wednesday that Washington would protect their interests as it works toward a final settlement of the war in talks with Iran. Rubio’s remarks were part of a broader diplomatic effort to reassure regional partners about the direction of negotiations.

President Donald Trump met with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the White House, where he stated that the United States was “doing great” in its discussions with Iran. Trump also requested approximately $88 billion in supplemental funding from Congress on Wednesday, with the bulk allocated to the Pentagon to cover costs related to the Iran war.

The developments highlight the delicate balance as the US seeks to end the protracted conflict while maintaining the confidence of Gulf states that have been deeply affected by the instability. Iran’s hardline stance on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping chokepoint, adds another layer of complexity to the talks.