US President Donald Trump has ordered a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran after talks failed to resolve disputes over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said: “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 added that the move aims to counter what he described as “world extortion” by Iran.
Reiterating his long-standing position, Trump said: “IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!”
Threat of military action
The US President coupled the blockade announcement with strong military warnings. “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!” he said, adding that US forces are “LOCKED AND LOADED.”
Trump also claimed that US forces would begin clearing naval mines allegedly deployed by Iran in the strategic waterway.
Shipping and ‘toll’ crackdown
Trump further warned that the US Navy would target vessels accused of paying transit fees to Iran. “I have also instructed our Navy to seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran,” he said, adding that such ships would not be guaranteed safe passage.
Global waterway disruption
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, has been at the center of rising tensions. Trump accused Iran of failing to uphold assurances to keep the route open, stating: “Iran promised to open the Strait of Hormuz, and they knowingly failed to do so.”
He added that uncertainty over potential mines had deterred global shipping: “What ship owner would want to take the chance?”
The marathon discussions reportedly lasted nearly 20 hours. Trump said he had been briefed by Vice President JD Vance, envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.
Despite describing the talks as extensive, Trump said Iranian officials remained firm. “They were very unyielding as to the single most important issue,” he noted.
