Donald Trump has ordered the United States Navy to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions after failed peace talks with Iran.
In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that they have full control over the waterway and threatened to trap any opposing forces attempting to challenge them.
In a statement on his social media platform, Trump said the US aims to clear the strait of mines and reopen it to global shipping. However, he stressed that Iran must not benefit from controlling the route.
“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,” Trump said, also warning of severe retaliation against any Iranian attack.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected the threats, stating that Iran would not bow to pressure from Washington.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key global route for oil and gas shipments. Iran has already restricted traffic, allowing only vessels linked to friendly nations, such as China, to pass. There are also reports that Iran may impose tolls on ships using the route.
Trump criticized the move, calling it “world extortion,” and said the US would intercept vessels that pay such tolls. He also warned of possible economic measures, including tariffs on China if it supports Iran.
The situation follows the collapse of recent peace talks held in Pakistan, which aimed to resolve the ongoing conflict and nuclear tensions.
Analysts warn that a US blockade could significantly escalate the conflict and disrupt global energy markets, as the strait is one of the most important oil transit routes in the world.
