Washington — President Trump announced on Sunday that the U.S. Navy will commence a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, intercepting ships that have paid tolls to Iran, following unsuccessful negotiations in Pakistan aimed at ending the ongoing war.
“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 depart, the Strait of Hormuz,” the president stated in a post on Truth Social Sunday morning.
Mr. Trump directed the Navy to “seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran,” and to begin “destroying the mines the Iranians laid in the Straits.” He added, “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”
According to analysts from Lloyd’s List Intelligence, at least two vessels have already paid Iran fees in Chinese yuan to ensure safe passage through the strait. The analysts reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has established a “de facto ‘toll booth’ regime” requiring documentation, clearance codes, and escorted passage.
The president previously urged Iran not to impose tolls on ships traveling through the waterway. The blockade announcement followed the failure of U.S.-Iran talks led by Vice President JD Vance in Islamabad on Saturday. Vance reported that the Iranians “have chosen not to accept our terms” and that direct talks were concluded, despite a two-week ceasefire agreed to five days prior.
Mr. Trump described the talks as “going well,” claiming “most points were agreed to, but the only point that really mattered, NUCLEAR, was not.”
The president stated the blockade “will begin shortly,” and that other countries will participate. He asserted that Iran “will not be allowed to profit off this Illegal Act of EXTORTION,” adding, “They wish money and, more importantly, they want Nuclear.” He concluded, “Additionally and, at an appropriate moment, we are fully ‘LOCKED AND LOADED,’ and our Military will finish up the little that is left of Iran!”
Frequently Asked Questions
What action is President Trump taking regarding the Strait of Hormuz?
President Trump announced the U.S. Navy will begin blockading the Strait of Hormuz and intercepting vessels that have paid tolls to Iran.
What was the outcome of the recent talks in Pakistan?
Talks between the U.S. And Iran in Pakistan failed to yield an agreement to end the war, with Vice President JD Vance stating that the Iranians “have chosen not to accept our terms.”
What did President Trump say was the main sticking point in the negotiations?
President Trump stated that the primary disagreement during negotiations was related to the “NUCLEAR” issue.
As the U.S. Moves to implement a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, what impact might this have on global trade and international relations?
