US President Donald Trump has made a strong and controversial announcement, saying that the United States will immediately begin a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, with all passing ships to be stopped and inspected.
Trump claimed that Iran had broken its promise to keep the waterway open and had allegedly laid sea mines, creating fear and uncertainty worldwide. He described the move as “global extortion” and said no country would accept such pressure.
He stated that the US Navy would have the authority to stop, search, and possibly detain any vessel that had paid toll fees to Iran, adding that such ships would not be allowed safe passage. Trump also said that US forces would destroy all sea mines in the strait and warned that any attack by Iranian forces on American or peaceful vessels would be met with a “strong and devastating response.”
The US president added that allied countries would join the blockade and that Iran would not be allowed to benefit from what he called an “illegal action.”
Trump said he had been briefed by Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner about the lengthy negotiations held in Islamabad. He praised Pakistan’s leadership, especially Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif, saying their diplomacy helped prevent a major war and saved many lives.
According to Trump, talks with Iran lasted nearly 20 hours and saw progress on several issues, but the key dispute over Iran’s nuclear programme remained unresolved, as Iran was unwilling to give up its ambitions. He stressed that Iran would never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons, regardless of the steps required.
Trump also claimed that Iran’s military strength has been severely weakened, with its navy and air force nearly destroyed and its defense systems largely ineffective. He warned that if Iran does not de-escalate the situation, the United States is fully prepared to take further action against remaining targets.
Analysts warn that if the US enforces a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, it could have serious global consequences, especially for oil supply, the world economy, and regional stability.
