By Our Reporter
United States President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a sweeping blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran amid stalled negotiations over its nuclear program.
In a statement posted on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump declared that the United States Navy would begin the process of blocking all ships attempting to enter or leave the critical oil transit route.
He described Iran’s actions in the region as “world extortion,” accusing Tehran of imposing illegal tolls and threatening global energy security.
“No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. would not be intimidated.”
Trump noted that recent negotiations with Iran ended without a deal, despite progress on several issues. He emphasized that the key sticking point remained Iran’s nuclear ambitions, which he described as “the only point that really mattered.”
U.S. officials, led by Vice President JD Vance, had engaged Iranian representatives in marathon talks in Islamabad, but failed to reach a lasting agreement.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints, with more than a fifth of global seaborne oil supply passing through it.
Iran has reportedly deployed drones, missiles, and naval mines in the area, and is accused of demanding up to $1 per barrel of oil for safe passage—moves U.S. officials say amount to economic coercion.
Trump also revealed that U.S. forces are preparing to neutralize mines in the waterway, with both advanced and traditional minesweepers already deployed. Allied countries, including the United Kingdom, are expected to contribute additional support.
He warned that any hostile action by Iranian forces would be met with overwhelming military response.
“We are fully locked and loaded,” Trump said, signaling readiness for further escalation if necessary.”
The announcement comes days after a fragile two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. While some diplomatic progress was reported, the absence of agreement on nuclear issues has heightened uncertainty.
Trump indicated that the blockade could begin soon, though no exact timeline was provided.
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