Trump Threatens Strait of Hormuz Blockade as US-Iran Peace Talks Collapse
U.S. moves to restrict strategic waterway after failed negotiations with Iran
- Donald Trump has warned of a U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following the collapse of US-Iran peace talks
- The U.S. says it will restrict shipping and take action against vessels linked to Iran amid rising regional tensions
- Both sides have blamed each other for the failed negotiations, raising fears over global oil supply stability.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that the United States will move to block the Strait of Hormuz after high-level talks with Iran broke down, sharply escalating tensions in an already volatile region.
The announcement comes after marathon negotiations in Islamabad aimed at sustaining a fragile ceasefire reached last week following nearly six weeks of conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and unsettled global oil markets.
Trump stated that the U.S. Navy has been instructed to begin restricting vessels entering and exiting the strategic waterway, which carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. He also threatened action against ships paying transit fees to Iran, describing such payments as unlawful.
He further warned that any Iranian strike on U.S. forces or commercial shipping would be met with overwhelming military force, adding that the U.S. would begin removing naval mines allegedly placed by Iran in the strait.
The breakdown of negotiations has deepened uncertainty over the ceasefire, with both sides accusing each other of undermining the talks. U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Iran rejected key conditions, including abandoning its nuclear programme.
Iranian officials, however, accused Washington of making unrealistic demands and failing to build trust. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Tehran had presented constructive proposals but questioned U.S. willingness to compromise.
Reports indicate Iran is seeking broader concessions, including regional ceasefires, war reparations, access to frozen assets, and greater influence over the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the diplomatic collapse, limited shipping activity has resumed in the waterway following the ceasefire announcement, with several oil tankers passing through.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high across the wider region, with Israel continuing airstrikes against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, further highlighting the fragility of the truce.
International pressure is growing to preserve peace, with Pakistan urging restraint and Pope Leo calling for a lasting end to hostilities, particularly in Lebanon.
