US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States Navy will commence a blockade aimed at stopping vessels from entering or exiting the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic channel crucial for global oil transport, accounting for 20% of oil supplies. This directive follows the breakdown of peace negotiations with Iran, which were held in Pakistan.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump declared that the Navy, described as “the Finest in the World,” would “immediately” initiate the process to prevent any ships trying to cross the strait. He specifically instructed the Navy to target vessels in international waters that have paid any tolls to Iran, asserting that such ships would not be afforded safe passage.
Trump also emphasised that Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons is a primary factor in the ongoing conflict, signalling the US’s readiness to escalate military actions if necessary. Adding a confrontational tone, he stated that at the right moment, the US military is “fully ‘LOCKED AND LOADED'” to decisively conclude the ongoing hostilities with Iran.
This aggressive stance is part of a broader strategy to diminish Iran’s economic influence during the war, as Trump seeks to exert control over a vital maritime route and mitigate what he perceives as threats posed by Tehran.