US says military options remain to deny Iran access to nuclear sites; Washington demands Hormuz shipping pledge

11/07/2026

US says military options remain to deny Iran access to nuclear sites; Washington demands Hormuz shipping pledge

WASHINGTON, Jul 11: The United States has military options available to ensure Iran's nuclear sites remain inaccessible if necessary, senior US officials told Reuters, underscoring Washington's determination to prevent Tehran from restoring its nuclear capabilities.

The officials said the United States is prepared to take further action to deny Iran access to facilities that could support its nuclear program, amid heightened tensions between the two countries.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pressing Iran to publicly declare that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping and to commit to ending attacks on commercial vessels, Axios reported on Friday, citing US officials.

According to the report, Washington wants Tehran to issue a formal statement affirming freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway and halt attacks on merchant ships as part of ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and revive negotiations.