The United States issued new guidance to commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program, Reuters reported.

Axar.az reports that U.S.-flagged ships are advised to stay as far from Iranian territorial waters as safely possible and to verbally refuse boarding if approached by Iranian forces, but not to physically resist any boarding.

The move comes as Iran has previously threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz—a strategic shipping route for Middle East oil—and has at times seized commercial vessels alleging smuggling.

Meanwhile, nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran, mediated by Oman, are ongoing, though Washington also seeks to address Iran's ballistic missiles, regional support for armed groups, and human rights.

Recently, President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on imports from countries that trade with Iran, escalating economic pressure.