United States President, Donald Trump, has directed the U.S. Navy to commence a blockade of the Strait of Hormuzfollowing the collapse of negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme.
In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, Trump said while discussions recorded progress on several fronts, they ultimately failed to address what he described as the most critical issue Iran’s 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, describing the move as a response to what he termed “world extortion.”
The U.S. leader accused Iran of creating uncertainty in the key global oil route, alleging that Tehran had suggested the possible deployment of naval mines in the waterway to intimidate international shipping.
He further disclosed that U.S. forces had been ordered to intercept vessels in international waters suspected of paying tolls to Iran for safe passage, warning that such ships would not be guaranteed protection.
“No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas,” Trump stated, adding that American forces would also begin clearing mines allegedly planted in the strait.
The statement also carried a sharp military warning, with Trump threatening decisive retaliation against any hostile action.
“Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be blown to hell,” he warned.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor linking the Persian Gulf to global markets, accounts for a significant share of global oil shipments, making any disruption a major concern for international trade and energy prices.
Trump indicated that other countries may participate in enforcing the blockade, although he did not specify which nations.
Iran had maintained control of the strategic passage until a two-week ceasefire agreement was reached earlier in the week, but the latest development signals a renewed escalation in tensions.