US President Donald Trump has ordered a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following stalled negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme.
Mr Trump announced the decision on Sunday, stating that the United States would begin blocking all ships entering or leaving the strategic waterway in response to Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
“Effective immediately, the United States Navy… will begin the process of blockading any and all ships trying to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
He also issued a stern warning, threatening force against any Iranian action targeting US or commercial vessels.
The move follows the breakdown of high-level talks in Islamabad between US officials and an Iranian delegation led by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
US Vice President JD Vance confirmed that negotiations ended without agreement, despite what he described as Washington’s “final and best offer.”
Iran’s team also included Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Strategic tensions
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route through which about one-fifth of the world’s crude passes, has already faced severe disruption during the conflict.
Mr Trump accused Iran of failing to honour commitments to keep the route open, alleging that Tehran may have deployed naval mines despite earlier assurances.
“They say they put mines in the water… what ship owner would want to take the chance?” he said.
Military buildup
The US military had earlier deployed warships to the region, with two vessels recently transiting the strait as part of a mine-clearing operation.
The blockade marks a significant escalation, raising concerns about direct confrontation and broader economic fallout.
The decision heightens tensions in the Middle East, with potential impacts on global oil supply, international shipping, and the risk of a wider military conflict involving major world powers.
Discover more from VOICE OF THE PEOPLE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
