Donald Trump has ordered the United States Navy to begin blocking vessels in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran after diplomatic talks reportedly collapsed.
The directive follows stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, with Trump insisting the move is aimed at preventing Tehran from benefiting from its influence over one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
In a statement posted on his social media platform, Trump said the operation would begin immediately, adding that the US would take action against any vessel attempting to enter or exit the waterway.
He warned that any hostile response from Iranian forces would be met with severe retaliation.
In reaction, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rejected the move and claimed it already maintains operational control over traffic in the strait. It also warned that foreign forces attempting to interfere would face serious consequences.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy corridor, handling a significant share of the world’s oil and gas shipments. Reports suggest Iran has previously restricted movement through the passage, allowing select allied vessels to pass while limiting others, with speculation that it could introduce transit fees going forward.
