US and Iran fuel uncertainty over possible Strait of Hormuz opening

The Strait of Hormuz is at the center of escalating tensions, with conflicting statements emerging from the United States and Iran regarding its accessibility. President Donald Trump asserted on Sunday that the vital waterway remains open to commercial traffic, despite Iran's earlier announcement of a blockade.

"We bombed them last night, as much as we could. They are very, very evil and sick people," Trump stated in an interview with NBC News, referring to Iran. The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) also affirmed on X that the passage is open "for all vessels" legally transiting, adding, "Iran does not control the strait. Traffic flows."

However, Iran's Port and Maritime Organization (PGSA) declared that transit through the Strait of Hormuz is currently impossible due to recent U.S. attacks. "We inform all esteemed applicants: due to the recent illegal movements of the United States military forces in the region, passage through the Strait of Hormuz is currently not possible," the Iranian-controlled body announced on X.

Amidst this renewed exchange of hostilities, Pakistan, acting as a key mediator, called for an immediate de-escalation. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged the parties to pursue de-escalation and exercise restraint, as agreed upon in a June 2026 Memorandum of Understanding. He emphasized that dialogue is the "only feasible way to resolve disputes."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also weighed in, suggesting that while Trump aims for an agreement with Iran, he is prepared to use force. "I believe that President (Donald) Trump wants to exhaust all possibilities to reach an agreement, especially regarding the nuclear issue, through negotiations," Netanyahu told NBC News. Meanwhile, Omani authorities reported that their country was targeted by drone attacks in the Musandam and Al Wusta regions, with the Foreign Ministry later acknowledging Iran's responsibility and summoning the Iranian ambassador to lodge a protest.