U.S. President Donald Trump has directed the American navy to begin enforcing a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following stalled negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme.
In a statement shared on social media, Trump said the move was in response to Tehran’s refusal to make concessions on its nuclear ambitions, despite what he described as productive discussions during recent talks held in Islamabad.
He announced that U.S. naval forces would immediately begin restricting vessels entering or leaving the vital shipping route, warning of severe consequences for any hostile actions against American or commercial ships.
The talks in Pakistan ended without an agreement, as U.S. Vice President JD Vance departed after presenting what he called Washington’s “final offer” to Iranian officials.
Iran’s delegation, led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, reportedly maintained its position on continuing its nuclear activities.
Trump also accused Iran of failing to follow through on earlier assurances to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route responsible for transporting a significant portion of the world’s oil supply.
Tensions have remained high in the region, with the waterway experiencing disruptions for weeks amid ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
Meanwhile, the U.S. military confirmed that naval operations, including mine-clearing efforts, had already begun in the area, signaling a further escalation in the crisis.
- AFP