President Trump orders Strait of Hormuz blockade as Iran talks collapse

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will move forward with a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after high-stakes negotiations with Iran ended without a breakthrough. The talks, held in Islamabad and involving U.S., Iranian, and Pakistani officials, failed to resolve key disputes—particularly over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and control of the critical waterway.

According to U.S. officials, Iran refused to meet several key demands, including ending uranium enrichment, dismantling major nuclear facilities, cutting support for regional militant groups, and allowing unrestricted access to the strait without fees. Vice President JD Vance said Iran “have chosen not to accept our terms.”

Iran, meanwhile, pushed for control over the strait, financial reparations, a broader regional ceasefire, and access to frozen assets. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf criticized Washington, saying it had failed to build trust and warning, “We will not bow to any threats, let them test our will once again so that we can teach them a bigger lesson.”

In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared, “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.” He added that other nations would participate and emphasized that “Iran will not be allowed to profit off this Illegal Act of EXTORTION.”

The decision marks a major escalation in the ongoing conflict. The Strait of Hormuz—through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes—has already been heavily restricted during the war, contributing to volatile energy markets and rising global economic pressure. Trump said the blockade aims to stop Iran from imposing tolls on passing vessels, warning, “No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas.” He further stated the U.S. Navy would “seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran,” while also working to clear naval mines reportedly placed in the strait.

Speaking on Fox News, Trump described the move as a “complete blockade,” allowing no ships through until Iran changes course. He argued the U.S. must endure short-term economic strain to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons, predicting energy prices would eventually stabilize. Trump also signaled further economic pressure, warning that any country—potentially including China—that continues to buy Iranian oil could face steep penalties, including tariffs as high as 50%.

Tensions remain high on the ground. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard stated the strait is open to civilian vessels under specific rules but warned that any military presence would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and met with force. U.S. ships have already entered the area to begin mine-clearing operations.

A U.S.-based human rights group estimates nearly 3,400 people have been killed in Iran, including more than 1,600 civilians. In Lebanon, over 2,000 deaths have been reported amid ongoing Israeli strikes, while casualties have also been recorded in Israel and among U.S. forces.

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