US Demands Iran Halt Hormuz Attacks; Imposes New Sanctions

The United States has imposed new sanctions on Ali Ansari, a Dubai-based Iranian banker, and key Iranian exchange houses, accusing them of moving billions of dollars for sanctioned banks and financially supporting Iran's Revolutionary Guards. These measures follow Iran's recent attacks on international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Concurrently, a Qatari delegation visited Iran to mediate and de-escalate the escalating Gulf tensions, reportedly in collaboration with the U.S. U.S. officials stated they are demanding Iran publicly commit to stopping attacks in the Strait of Hormuz and ensure all lanes are open to shipping. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to travel to Oman for talks focused on the Strait of Hormuz and shipping safety, continuing consultations that began in recent months. The U.S. has given Iran until Saturday to publicly acknowledge that the Strait of Hormuz is open and pledge to stop firing on commercial ships.