The United States says it remains willing to negotiate an end to its escalating conflict with Iran, even as military action and threats against commercial shipping place two of the world’s most important energy routes under increasing pressure.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was open to negotiations but accused Tehran of failing to engage seriously. His comments came during an ASEAN-related meeting in Manila after an eleventh consecutive night of reported U.S. strikes against Iranian targets.
Iran has responded with attacks against American facilities in the region. Kuwait reported intercepting Iranian drones, while attacks were also reported near U.S. positions in Bahrain and Jordan. Claims concerning individual strikes, casualties and damage remain subject to confirmation from independent sources.
The conflict is now affecting maritime traffic beyond the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters reported that only three commodity vessels crossed the strait on Tuesday, according to Kpler tracking data. No very large crude carriers or liquefied-natural-gas tankers were recorded making the passage.
At the same time, three tankers carrying Saudi crude reportedly reversed course in the Red Sea following threats from Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The group has warned companies against using Saudi ports and declared what it describes as a naval blockade.
The Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb are essential corridors for international oil and gas shipments. Serious disruption at both locations could delay deliveries, increase insurance and transportation costs, and place further upward pressure on fuel prices. Reuters reported Brent crude trading near a six-week high on Wednesday, although prices can change quickly in response to military and diplomatic developments.
For energy-importing countries, the risk extends well beyond the price of crude. Longer journeys and higher freight costs can affect electricity generation, manufacturing, food distribution and household transport. Even without a complete closure, uncertainty can influence contracts and consumer prices before physical shortages appear.
Diplomatic efforts have not ended. Pakistan has reportedly been involved in mediation, but no ceasefire accepted by all parties had been formally announced at publication time.
This is a developing story. Military claims, vessel movements and proposed diplomatic terms may change rapidly and should not be treated as settled until confirmed by the relevant governments or independent observers. Scandle Wire independently wrote this report using credited Reuters reporting and shipping-market information; no source text has been reproduced.