Tribhuvan Army Club has secured the championship title at the 8th National Men’s and 7th National Women’s Kho-Kho Championships. In the men’s category, the Army defeated Lumbini Province 19-16, while the women’s team won decisively with a 16-4 victory. The winners received a cash prize of NPR 75,000 along with medals, the runners-up were awarded NPR 50,000, and the third-place teams earned NPR 25,000. The event concluded on April 14 in Kathmandu.
The final matches were held on Monday at the Kirtipur Covered Hall, where both teams from Tribhuvan Army Club emerged as national champions by beating Lumbini Province. The men’s final was a thrilling encounter, with the Army edging out Lumbini Province 19-16. Similarly, in the women’s final, the Army team dominated Lumbini Province with a clear 16-4 scoreline.
Both champion teams from the Army received trophies, NPR 75,000 cash prizes, and medals. The runners-up, Lumbini Province, took home NPR 50,000, while Bagmati Province, which finished third in both categories, was awarded NPR 25,000. The competition, which spanned four days, featured eight teams in the men’s division—including the Nepal Army side—and seven teams in the women’s division, according to Pradeep Maharjan, President of the Nepal Kho-Kho Association.
April 14, Rolpa – An open men’s volleyball tournament offering a prize pool of NPR 111,111 is set to take place in Parivartan Rural Municipality, West North Rolpa. The competition will be held from April 18 to April 25 at Bagmara of Parivartan Rural Municipality-3, coinciding with the 28th annual celebration of the Lali Gurans Youth Club. According to Hiralal Khadka, president of the Lali Gurans Youth Club, the tournament’s winning team will receive NPR 111,111 in cash, along with trophies, medals, and certificates.
Additionally, the runner-up team will be awarded NPR 51,111 cash, medals, and certificates, while the two semifinalist teams will each receive NPR 25,111 along with medals and certificates. In the open women’s volleyball category, the champion team will be granted NPR 35,555 in cash, trophies, medals, and certificates. The runner-up team will get NPR 20,555 with medals and certificates, and the two semifinalists will be awarded NPR 10,555 in cash, as per the organizers.
The Lali Gurans Youth Club, based in West Rolpa, became the first institution in the region to organize an open volleyball tournament with such a substantial prize fund. Until now, no volleyball tournament in West Rolpa has offered such a large prize pool. In terms of club registration in Rolpa district, Sunstar Youth Club ranks first, followed by Lali Gurans Youth Club in second place. Established on April 18, 1998 (B.S. 2055, Baishakh 5), under the leadership of President Bishwakumar Chand, Lali Gurans Youth Club has been active in various activities and has succeeded in producing national and regional level athletes.
The Government of Nepal declared volleyball as an official national sport on May 22, 2017 (B.S. 2074, Jestha 8). The then Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda)-led cabinet made this decision considering the sport’s popularity and geographical accessibility across the Himalayas, hills, and plains. Despite nine years since its declaration, Nepal has yet to establish a formal volleyball hall. Nonetheless, many districts in western Nepal regularly host volleyball tournaments, and numerous clubs and organizations in Rolpa conduct volleyball competitions on a regular basis.
April 14, Kathmandu — Tensions have escalated following inconclusive ceasefire talks between the US and Iran held in Islamabad, Pakistan. Despite Iran’s offer to suspend its nuclear program for five years, the US’s firm stance on imposing 20-year sanctions led to the talks ending without agreement. According to a New York Times report, during the Islamabad talks, Iran proposed halting its nuclear activities for five years. However, the US demanded that Iran cease all nuclear activities for 20 years and return its stockpile of enriched uranium.
US Vice President JD Vance stated that “the ball is now in Tehran’s court,” emphasizing that Iran must provide a firm guarantee that it will not develop nuclear weapons. He also noted that the Iranian delegation lacked the authority to make final decisions, which prevented an agreement. Meanwhile, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Defense Minister Khawaja Asif expressed optimism that the talks are progressing positively and hoped another phase of negotiations would soon take place. Former US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran is eager to reach an agreement following sanctions and warned that failure to do so within the ceasefire timeline would lead to severe consequences for Iran.
Iranian President Masoud Pejescian, during a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, urged Europe to play a positive role in ensuring US compliance with international law. Meanwhile, following directives from US President Donald Trump, the US Navy has enforced a maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The blockade was implemented from Monday evening. The US has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, 11 destroyers, and at least 15 warships in the Middle East. Trump warned that any Iranian vessel approaching the blockade would be immediately and decisively destroyed as if it were a drug-trafficking ship.
As the blockade commenced, two oil tankers named “Rich Starry” and “Austria” diverted their routes away from the Strait of Hormuz. Concurrently, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, warning that the US’s provocative actions in Hormuz pose a threat to global peace. Iran also warned that any attack on its ports would jeopardize the security of ports throughout the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Global crude oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel. However, with renewed hope for resumed talks, US stock markets (S&P 500 and Nasdaq) experienced modest gains. Trump cautioned China against providing military assistance to Iran, threatening serious repercussions. Nonetheless, Trump expressed confidence that Chinese President Xi Jinping supports ending the conflict. Trump is scheduled to visit Beijing on May 14 and 15.
April 14, Kathmandu – Iran has demanded reparations from its neighboring countries Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait for damages incurred during the war. Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeed Iravani, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asserting that these five countries violated international law and must provide full compensation for the harm caused to Iran.
According to a news agency report, Ambassador Iravani stated in the letter, “These five countries have breached international law and failed to fulfill their responsibilities toward Iran. Their international liability has been established, and they must fully compensate all physical and psychological damages suffered by Iran.”
This is not the first time Iran has issued such demands. Previously, Iran sought reparations from the United States for damages resulting from their conflict. Meanwhile, Pakistan has indicated that another round of talks between Iran and the US may commence soon. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, while addressing reporters outside the parliament in Islamabad on Monday, said that maintaining the ongoing ceasefire and observing a positive environment suggests that the next phase of talks between Iran and the US is anticipated shortly. He stated, “Following recent dialogues, there is a satisfactory atmosphere with no negative developments so far. The situation remains stable and should be seen as a sign that diplomatic efforts are moving in the right direction.”
Speaker DP Aryal reviews the under-construction industry. April 14, Dhading. The country’s economy has been affected by a global economic downturn, investor hesitancy, and international conflicts. Despite these challenges, a new industry is being established in Kamere village, Ward No. 8 of Nilkantha Municipality in Dhading. Initiated amidst the public movement of mid-September, import-export disruptions, and a lack of investment-friendly conditions that have weakened the private sector, this project has instilled confidence among locals in jointly advancing agriculture and industry.
The industry structures are currently under construction in Kamere village near Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters. Heavy machinery is being installed, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with activity from workers and enthusiastic farmers alike. This new development is generating fresh energy in the area.
Renewed Hope Among Farmers: Surrounding the industry, there are 6-7 major cultivable areas including Kamere Phant, Koirale Phant, Tallobensi Phant, Sasah Phant, Birtabensi Phant, and Jalvire Phant. Traditionally, these areas have grown paddy and maize. While potato holds considerable potential as a winter crop, farmers have only engaged in limited cultivation for subsistence due to market shortages. The establishment of a potato-related industry in this region has sparked new hope among farmers. The industry plans to encourage potato production and purchase the potatoes produced.
Based on the recommendation from Ward No. 8 of Nilkantha Municipality, the industry has announced a 25% discount on potato storage facilities for local farmers. It also offers new prospects for the renowned potato farmers of northern Dhading. Previously, high-altitude potatoes often went to waste due to lack of markets, but now there is an increased likelihood of good market access. Sitaram Koirala of Ward No. 8 Nilkantha Municipality stated, “The areas traditionally used only for paddy and subsistence farming will now successfully cultivate potatoes. Direct sales from farm to industry have greatly encouraged the farmers.”
Employment Opportunities for Locals: Once fully operational, the industry director, Rameshbhai Adhikari, said approximately 200 people will be directly employed. Additionally, around 20,000 farmers are expected to benefit indirectly. The industry plans to prioritize providing employment to local youth, giving them opportunities to develop skills and work within their community instead of seeking foreign employment. A fully automated system based on German technology is being installed, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of Nepali agricultural products internationally. By processing agricultural products—typically limited to raw material form—and adding value, this initiative could positively impact the nation’s trade balance.
Adhikari further informed that the industry will consume 10 tons of potatoes daily to produce potato-based food products. Alongside industrial production, local entrepreneurs aim to build an ‘economic ecosystem’ by developing skills, transferring technology, and utilizing local human resources effectively.
Speaker Dolprasad Aryal, visiting Dhading—the first time during his tenure—inspected the under-construction industrial site and affirmed that the government is taking serious steps to secure private sector investment. His remarks have boosted investor confidence and morale, according to business leaders. Historically, bridging the gap between agriculture and industry has been a challenge in Nepal. However, this industrial project in Dhading, which adopts policies to increase agricultural output and improve market access, signals a reduction in that divide.
Kathmandu, April 14 – Hark Sampang, Chairman of the Labour Culture Party and a Member of Parliament, has committed to soon publicly disclose his assets. On Tuesday, he shared preliminary details on his Facebook status, stating that he does not own any land and only possesses a modest bank balance along with some gold.
Responding to public demands for his asset declaration, MP Sampang asserted that he holds no immovable property in his name. “I understand there is interest in my asset details, and I will make them public within a few days,” he said. “I own nothing in my name. I might have around 4-5 tolas of gold earned through foreign employment. My bank balance is only about 200,000 to 400,000 rupees.” He further noted that the only ancestral property associated with him is some farmland in Khotang, which is registered under his mother’s name.
Sampang specified that he possesses a few plots of farmland, including steep slopes, cultivated land, bamboo groves, and grassland, in Chokhane village, Ward No. 2 of Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality, Khotang district, all under his mother’s name. He clarified that none of his siblings have claimed any share of this inherited property so far. Addressing the legal requirement for public representatives to disclose their assets and the public’s growing queries, he affirmed his formal commitment to making his asset details publicly available.
Blockades imposed by the US on Iran’s ports have officially commenced. President Donald Trump announced that the blockade would begin at 10:00 AM Eastern Time (14:00 GMT) on Monday. Amid these developments, US Vice President James Defantis Pence accused the Iranian government of engaging in “economic terrorism” by disrupting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
In a television interview, Pence stated that the Iranians are “involved in acts of economic terrorism,” and the US will adopt a policy of “not allowing any Iranian vessels to go out.” Pence also addressed weekly talks, commenting, “The ball is in Iran’s court.” Earlier, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament affirmed Tehran’s stance of “not bowing to threats.” As for President Trump’s recent statements, there has been no official Iranian response.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued a warning that vessels in the area might face “military presence” and “inspection procedures.” Meanwhile, the New York Times cited senior Iranian officials reporting that Iran had proposed to suspend nuclear activities for five years, which the US rejected, insisting on a 20-year ban instead.
The report also noted that talks between the US and Iran took place in Pakistan, but no agreement was reached. Requests for comments from the White House are pending. Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain the central point of contention. President Trump has consistently stated that the US will ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on both the US and Iran to resume negotiations, emphasizing, “There is no military solution to this war; that is clear.”
Ravi Lamichhane, chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, characterized the upcoming New Year 2083 as a year that will be full of intense challenges. He stated, “It will be a year that truly tests endurance, and I hope we all gain the strength to endure hardship.” 1st Baisakh, Kathmandu.
Chairman Lamichhane extended his New Year greetings on behalf of his party. He specifically highlighted the year while conveying his wishes for the occasion.
President Ramchandra Paudel has characterized the New Year as an opportunity to determine shared national goals and to make a firm commitment to successfully achieving them. He highlighted that a new government has been established, and the people are expecting the rule of law, sustainable peace, and development. President Paudel emphasized the necessity of being loyal to the federal democratic republican system, committing to good governance, and upholding social justice. April 14, Kathmandu.
On the occasion of the New Year 2083, President Paudel extended wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, and longevity, while noting that goals are not easily attained and require strong resolve and hard work. He stressed that adherence to laws and regulations along with cultured behavior are essential to achieving these set objectives.
Recalling that the various Nepali calendars are an important part of the nation’s history, civilization, and social life, President Paudel remarked that they remind us of Nepal’s proud past and inspire continuous progress toward the future. He stated, “We Nepalese have traditionally regarded the New Year as a special occasion to review the past and to make pledges and resolve plans for the year ahead.”
President Paudel acknowledged the successful conclusion of the recent House of Representatives elections and the resolution of complex issues faced by the country, resulting in the formation of a new government based on the fresh mandate. He said, “Through this election, the Nepali people have expressed their desire for rule of law, sustainable peace, good governance, social justice, and prosperity rooted in the federal democratic republican system.”
He expressed his hope that the New Year will provide the determination and capability to achieve the goals of the federal democratic republic and inspire deeper trust, harmony, tolerance, and cooperation among Nepalis, thereby reinforcing national unity.
The new government has included the repayment of small depositors in cooperatives in its 100-point agenda, and officials say necessary steps have now begun.
An official from the troubled cooperative management committee told BBC that priority will be given to returning funds to depositors who have saved up to one hundred thousand rupees.
However, the president of the Cooperative Victims’ Organization has warned that it is unacceptable for the government to try to return funds only to small depositors.
Existing law defines depositors with savings up to five hundred thousand rupees as small depositors.
The government led by Prime Minister Walendra Shah, in its 100-point agenda published on Chaitra 13, states under point number 99 that the repayment process for small depositors’ savings will start within 100 days.
Priority for Small Depositors
Officials say that following the government announcement, necessary coordination is underway between the committee and the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation.
The ministry has also prepared a ten-point action plan and is progressing with prioritized efforts, officials said.
“We are currently discussing and preparing groundwork on whether to proceed to the next phase only after completing the first phase focused on depositors with savings up to one hundred thousand rupees,” said Bimala Roka Shrestha, secretary of the committee.
According to the committee, among the total 80,000 depositors of troubled cooperatives, 36,754 are classified as small depositors. They have claims amounting to a total of 1.36 billion rupees.
“Since it is not possible to repay everyone at once, discussions are ongoing about starting with a specific criterion or clearing deposits for individuals who have saved less than one hundred thousand rupees,” she added.
Officials are working on returning the funds for now through a revolving fund.
“The government is planning to place some money in a rescue fund and use that to repay small depositors’ funds. The repaid money will then be reimbursed through cooperative asset management and loan recovery, creating a revolving fund,” Secretary Shrestha explained.
“The government plans to facilitate the process instead of directly repaying depositors. That is the ongoing discussion.”
Extensions Granted to Three Cooperatives
The committee reports that, among 23 cooperatives declared troubled, only three have been granted extensions so far.
The cooperatives granted extensions are Kubera Savings and Credit Cooperative Limited, Standard Multipurpose Cooperative Limited, and Chartered Saving and Credit Cooperative Limited.
Together, these three institutions have 51 depositors whose claims total 22.866 million rupees.
Although there are many depositors in troubled cooperatives, there are only 80,087 registered claims.
The total claimed amount by those depositors exceeds 4.76 billion rupees.
The committee’s main responsibility is to manage and recover funds from loans and assets of the troubled institutions.
Technical and Practical Challenges
However, officials admit that the committee has not yet been able to manage assets effectively due to technical and practical difficulties.
“We found that the cooperatives re-mortgaged assets already seized by banks, and properties bought with cooperative funds are registered under individuals’ names rather than the cooperatives,’ said Secretary Shrestha.
“Due to the complexity of these issues, we have not been able to work effectively on asset management for troubled cooperatives,” she added.
The committee has so far recovered over 376.8 million rupees in loans.
“Including proceeds from real estate sales, a total of 436.51 million rupees have been repaid to depositors,” Shrestha said.
She explained that despite various challenges, the committee continues its efforts.
Initially, proper transaction details were unavailable, and many loans were provided without adequate collateral.
“Lands pledged as collateral were often overvalued, resulting in auctions that failed or sold for very low prices,” she noted.
“In many cases, banks and financial institutions had already seized assets before cooperatives re-mortgaged them. We are currently unable to confiscate such collateral,” she explained.
Photo credit, Kushalav KC
Caption, Cooperative victims (file photo)
She emphasized that without action from other state agencies to hold those involved in fund misuse accountable, the problem will not be resolved swiftly. “It is not possible to repay all the money solely through loan and asset management.”
‘This Is Unacceptable to Us’
Kushalav KC, president of the National Campaign to Protect Cooperative Depositors (Federation), demanded that not only small but large depositors should also receive some repayment.
“We have clearly discussed this with the minister. Our demand is that funds should not be given only to small depositors but also to large depositors,” he said.
Kushalav KC stressed that all citizens should be treated equally from both state and legal perspectives, arguing that unequal treatment is unacceptable.
“That wouldn’t be just. Therefore, the process should be fair. If only small depositors are compensated, we will be compelled to approach the Supreme Court,” he added.
Minister Pratibha Rawal of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation also assured that the process will not move forward unreasonably, the president said.
Kushalav KC appealed that the current government should not weaken those who have been struggling to resolve this issue for the past 46 months.
1st Baisakh, Tehrathum – The area stretching from Cholung Park to Tinjure and Gupha Pokhari has become a major attraction for tourists during the New Year celebrations in eastern Nepal. The Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale (TMJ) trail, located at the junction of Tehrathum, Sankhuwasabha, and Taplejung districts, has become a hub for nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and photographers. In spring, this region transforms into a vibrant world of rhododendrons. Known as the “Capital of Rhododendrons,” the area draws thousands of visitors on New Year’s Day. When the hills and ridges are painted red with various species of rhododendrons, the natural beauty of the area becomes even more enchanting. The rhododendron forests spreading from Tinjure Hill to Milke and Jaljale have become the top choice for tourists.
Cholung Park serves as the gateway to this region. From here, visitors travel to RR Garden, Ghurpise, Pathibhara, and then ascend to Tinjure Hill. The mesmerizing views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Kumbhakarna mountains from Tinjure captivate all who visit. Continuing from Tinjure, tourists reach Gupha Pokhari in the Milke-Jaljale region via Chaukibazar and Mangalbare. Gupha Pokhari holds religious and natural significance; its peaceful surroundings, adjacent rhododendron forests, and cool air offer visitors spiritual and mental tranquility. Activity at this site increases markedly during the New Year. Not only do tourists from the eastern Terai districts of Nepal visit, but thousands also come from neighboring India’s Sikkim, Darjeeling, and West Bengal.
The rhododendron blooming season, beautiful mountain vistas, and cool weather make this a popular spot for celebrating the New Year, a fact confirmed by local residents. The growing number of tourists means hotels and homestays here are often fully booked. According to Hima Khanal, a hotelier in Gupha Bazaar, room bookings during the New Year and rhododendron season must be made well in advance, not just for two or four days but even earlier. Local resident Shriprasad Karki notes that managing the influx of tourists poses a challenge for both hotels and homestays during this season. Easy access via various types of vehicles continues to boost tourist arrivals.
With road network expansion, tourists can now easily reach close by motorcycle, jeep, or bus. This accessibility distinguishes the TMJ area from other remote tourist destinations. To manage the increasing traffic, a bus park has been constructed in Ghurpise, which plays a crucial role in transportation management, traffic control, and facilitating tourist movement. The combined efforts of local government and communities have had a positive impact on tourism promotion. TMJ boasts rich biodiversity, hosting hundreds of plant species, rare medicinal herbs, birds, and wildlife. The trek from Cholung Park to Gupha Pokhari is considered peaceful, safe, and scenic. Trails connecting villages, the local cultural life, homestay facilities, and organic food experiences bring tourists closer to rural lifestyles. However, despite its enormous potential, improvements in infrastructure development, marketing, and long-term tourism management remain necessary. With planned and efficient implementation by concerned authorities, this region could become one of Nepal’s premier tourist destinations. During the New Year, the journey from Cholung Park to Tinjure and onward to Gupha Pokhari offers an excellent choice for those seeking nature, culture, tranquility, and adventurous trekking. The rhododendron-covered hills, breathtaking mountain vistas, convenient access, and organized transportation collectively establish this region as a must-visit destination for the New Year.
Gagan Kumar Thapa, Chairman of the Nepali Congress, emphasized the need for everyone to rise above partisan interests and boundaries and work collaboratively on the occasion of New Year 2083. He called for a firm resolve to confront national challenges through unified efforts. He extended his best wishes that the New Year strengthens unity, brotherhood, and cooperation among all Nepalis.
April 14, Kathmandu — Chairman Thapa stated that for the nation’s and people’s benefit, all must transcend party interests and boundaries to advance together. Marking the occasion of New Year 2083, he wished for happiness, peace, prosperity, and continuous progress, urging all political parties and responsible bodies to unite in building a peaceful, civilized, culturally enriched, and economically prosperous nation.
He highlighted the importance of safeguarding and reinforcing the historic achievements attained through the long sacrifices, struggles, movements, and sacrifices of the Nepali people, while facing potential future national challenges with a united determination. He also noted that this is a crucial time to utilize new opportunities effectively by strengthening good governance and resolutely advancing economic development and prosperity.
Wishing that the New Year further solidifies mutual unity, brotherhood, harmony, and cooperation among all Nepalis and institutionally strengthens the federal democratic republic, he expressed hope that it will provide new energy, enthusiasm, and inspiration to progress toward economic, social, and cultural prosperity.
The US military has announced it will halt all vessels coming from or going to Iranian ports starting Monday.
Ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz from other locations will still be allowed passage, officials say.
Iran has been disrupting this crucial waterway for global trade following US-Israeli attacks.
Following the outset of attacks on February 28 and recent failed Iran-US negotiations over the weekend, President Donald Trump warned the US would impose a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump claims the talks collapsed because Iran refused to abandon its nuclear ambitions. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson accused the US of making excessive and illegal demands.
What Did Trump Say About the Blockade?
On Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social that all ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz would be stopped.
“I have ordered our Navy to stop any vessel that has paid fees to Iran in international waters,” Trump stated.
He also announced that the US would begin clearing explosives laid in the waterway.
Trump warned that if any Iranian forces attack US or peaceful vessels, they will be “sent to hell.”
While there could be eventual agreement on freedom of navigation, Trump stressed that Iran has allowed explosives to be laid in the waterway.
How Will the Blockade be Enforced in Practice?
Image source, AFP via Getty Images
Initially, Trump stated the blockade would be implemented immediately but later told Fox News it would take some time.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the blockade will commence Monday evening.
“The blockade will apply indiscriminately to all ships sailing from Iranian ports in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman,” CENTCOM announced.
Ships traveling from locations other than Iranian ports will not be stopped, and further details will be provided prior to enforcement, CENTCOM added.
Trump did not reveal the names of other countries participating in the blockade but confirmed the UK will not be involved.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump said NATO is willing to assist in securing the region.
He added that minesweepers will be deployed to clear explosives from the waterway, with the UK contributing as a NATO member.
Previously, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed British naval minesweeping systems have been deployed in the area.
A UK government spokesperson said they are forming alliances with France and other partners to protect freedom of navigation.
However, three US legal experts have criticized the blockade as a violation of international maritime law, with one warning it could adversely affect any ongoing ceasefire agreements.
Why is the US Imposing a Blockade in the Waterway?
Due to its strategic location, Iran’s control and obstruction of the Strait of Hormuz during this wartime has led to global oil price spikes.
Iran currently allows passage only to vessels that pay hefty fees.
Now, Trump aims to cut off Iran’s revenue by enforcing the blockade, which may further drive oil and gas prices higher.
Speaking with Fox News, Trump stated that Iran should not be allowed to sell or restrict oil exports at its discretion. His position is to either keep navigation open to all or to stop all vessels.
Analysts suggest Trump’s remarks are an attempt to pressure Iran into accepting US terms.
Republican Congressman Mike Turner told CBS that a blockade could be an appropriate measure to resolve the Strait of Hormuz bottleneck.
However, Democratic Senator Mark Warner from Virginia said he did not understand how the blockade would effectively compel Iran to reopen the waterway.
What Will Be the Impact?
Shipping expert Lars Jensen estimates the blockade will initially affect only a small number of vessels.
“Even if the US implements the blockade, only very few ships are currently passing through. This will not produce a major overall change,” he explained.
Jensen noted Trump’s threat to stop vessels paying fees to Iran would have limited effect because the number of such ships is very low.
“First, very few ships are transiting. Even fewer pay fees to Iran. And those fees are subject to US sanctions regulations,” he added.
Many shipping companies are reportedly adopting a wait-and-see approach.
Image source, NurPhoto via Getty images
What is the Current Status of the Waterway?
The two-week ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran signed on April 7 included provisions ensuring safe passage through this narrow waterway.
However, the Iranian military’s warning to destroy any unauthorized vessels led to minimal shipping activity in the first three days of the ceasefire.
By the evening of April 10, only 19 vessels had used the waterway.
Of these, 4 were transporting oil, gas, and chemicals, while the rest were bulk carriers or container ships.
Prior to February 28, the waterway averaged 138 vessel movements daily.
Additional reporting by Sarin Habeshian
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1st Baisakh, Kathmandu – Today marks the beginning of Vikram Samvat 2083. The New Year is traditionally seen as a symbol of excitement, fresh hopes, and new beginnings. Across the country, people are exchanging greetings and celebrating the New Year with great joy. Globally, the New Year is celebrated as a special occasion, and in Nepal, Baisakh 1 is observed as the New Year. Vikram Samvat is considered the oldest calendar system, and today is its very first day. It also marks the day the sun completes its transit through the Pisces zodiac sign and enters Aries, an event known as Baisakh Sankranti or Mesh Sankranti.
Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha and the Nepal Chamber of Industries held discussions on collaboration for the development and advancement of the energy sector. Minister Shrestha stated that the government is responsible for increasing both electricity export and domestic consumption, and is expecting suggestions from the private sector. President of the Chamber, Birendra Raj Pandey, proposed the formulation of policies to boost electricity consumption and urged allowing the private sector to engage in both domestic and international electricity trade.
During the meeting on Monday, 1st Baisakh, in Kathmandu, Minister Shrestha emphasized the government’s commitment to progressing by cooperating with the private sector for the overall development of the energy sector. He mentioned that the government is undertaking groundwork on how to increase domestic electricity consumption alongside exports. Highlighting that the government prioritizes reservoir, renewable energy, and strategies to increase electricity consumption, he also expressed expectations for clear suggestions from the private sector on how the energy sector can contribute more significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Birendra Raj Pandey, President of the Nepal Chamber of Industries, stressed the need for policy implementation to increase electricity consumption, suggesting that energy production should be ensured for industries and transmitted via ‘wheeling charges.’ He recommended allowing the private sector to participate in both domestic and international electricity trading. Upon federal government approval, he urged immediate power purchase agreements (PPAs) with all surveyed projects pending such agreements. He also called for the development of policies to increase electricity consumption and requested incentives for industries based on fossil fuels to transition to electric-based equipment. Additionally, Pandey emphasized the importance of paying attention to alternative energy sources.
