US President Donald Trump has ordered a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, sharply escalating tensions with Iran following the collapse of high-level talks.
The move includes plans to clear naval mines reportedly placed by Iran in the critical shipping route, a key artery for global energy supplies. Washington also warned of direct military action against any Iranian forces targeting US or civilian vessels.
The announcement follows the failure of negotiations between the US and Iran in Islamabad, increasing pressure on an already fragile ceasefire.
US Vice President JD Vance, who led the American delegation, confirmed the talks ended without a breakthrough and signaled that core US demands remain unmet.
The Islamabad discussions marked the first direct engagement between the two countries in more than a decade and the highest-level contact since 1979. Despite progress in dialogue, major differences, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program, persisted.
The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly 20 percent of the world’s energy supplies, making any disruption a major risk to global markets and trade flows.
Analysts warn the blockade could intensify regional instability and raise the likelihood of military confrontation in the Gulf.
Follow the latest news on Google News
