The United States announced it will impose a blockade on Iranian ports starting Monday. This blockade will take effect at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (14:00 GMT) on Monday. However, vessels from other countries passing through the Strait of Hormuz will not face any restrictions.
Previously, former President Donald Trump shared on the social media platform Truth Social that the US Navy would blockade any ships attempting to enter or exit this critical waterway. Speaking to reporters on Sunday night, Trump stated that despite Iran not returning to negotiations, he was unconcerned whether Iranian vessels attempted to enter or not. “I don’t care if they come or not; it’s fine either way,” he said.
Trump also mentioned that the ceasefire between the US and Iran remains “well maintained.” However, following the failure of the US-Iran peace talks held in Pakistan, tensions have escalated and reports indicate that oil prices have once again surpassed $100 per barrel. After the inconclusive talks in Islamabad, it has been reported that Trump is considering resuming airstrikes in Iran.
In response, Iran has declared it will take strict action against any military vessels entering this waterway. The Speaker of the Iranian Parliament asserted Tehran’s determination to “not yield to threats.” Recently, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted during the peace talks in Pakistan that the US and Iran are only inches away from reaching an agreement.
