US Initiates Total Blockade of Iranian Ports in Strait of Hormuz
The United States military initiated a blockade of all Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, following the failure of talks in Pakistan regarding Iran's nuclear program. The measure had been previously announced by US President Donald Trump and was set for April 13 at 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM GMT (5:30 PM in Iran), via the Truth Social platform. The US Central Command for the Middle East specified that only vessels not destined for or originating from Iran would be allowed to pass.
TL;DR
- The US military has blockaded all Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The blockade was announced by President Donald Trump and took effect on April 13.
- Only ships not destined for or originating from Iran are permitted to pass.
- Iran has declared the blockade "illegal" and an act of "piracy," warning of retaliation.
- The UK and Spain have distanced themselves from the US blockade.
- China has called for "unhindered" navigation and political resolution.
- France is organizing a conference for a "peaceful mission" to restore freedom of navigation.
- Oil prices have surged, with Brent crude surpassing $100 per barrel.
- The US aims to cut off Iran's export revenue and pressure its importers.
- The blockade occurs amidst an ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28.
- Over 6,000 people have died in the conflict, primarily in Iran and Lebanon.
- A two-week ceasefire, expiring April 22, remains uncertain.