The US President Donald Trump has ordered a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This development comes in response to Iran’s stiff refusal to give up its nuclear ambitions during peace talks in Islamabad. Trump said that Tehran has refused to concede on the issue of nuclear power. He acknowledged the marathon negotiations in Pakistan had gone “well” and “most points were agreed to.” “No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas,” Trump posted on Truth Social. According to his announcement, the blockade takes effect at 10 am ET (7:30 pm India time).
Iran has blocked Strait of Hormuz since the US and Israel launched a bombing campaign against Tehran. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that the blockade will apply to all the ships entering and exiting Iranian ports. The ships could face interception or capture if they violate the order. The blockade comes amid 20-hour-long talks between US and Iran in Islamabad, led by US Vice-President JD Vance. However, mediators from Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey are working behind the scenes to revive talks as there is no complete breakthrough.
The impact of blockade is already visible as oil prices have surged past $100 a barrel again. The impact can be seen in India as well, with rise in LPG cylinder prices as well as increase in prices of petrol and diesel. India meets 60% of its energy demand through imports, out of which 90% comes through Strait of Hormuz. Currently, the Strait remains under full control of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. Iranian leaders have also mocked the economic fallout of US actions.
