US Threatens Naval Blockade of Hormuz, Escalates Iran Standoff

President Donald Trump said the United States would begin moving to block ships entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, sharply escalating tensions with Iran after talks between the two sides failed to resolve key differences.

In a social media post, Trump said the discussions had gone “well” on most issues, but not on the central issue of Iran’s nuclear programme.

He said US forces would seek to interdict vessels in international waters that complied with what he described as Iranian demands, framing Tehran’s actions in the Strait as “extortion” through threats such as potential mine deployment.

Trump added that US naval forces would also begin clearing mines allegedly placed by Iran in the waterway, and said any attack on US or commercial vessels would be met with force. He did not provide details on the legal or operational framework or a timeline for enforcement.

“No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas,” he said, adding that US forces would destroy mines and respond forcefully to any attack on vessels.

The remarks mark a shift towards potential direct maritime enforcement, raising the risk of military confrontation in the Gulf.

Iran has not immediately responded to the statement. Tehran has previously warned that any attempt to restrict its access to the Strait would provoke retaliation.

The escalation follows inconclusive talks between US and Iranian officials, with both sides agreeing in principle to continue engagement, though no date has been set for further negotiations.

Oil markets and shipping participants are likely to watch for any signs of disruption to flows, insurance costs and freight rates, as geopolitical risks in West Asia intensify.