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The US military has declared the initiation of a blockade on all Iranian Gulf ports starting Monday at 1400 GMT (April 13). Nevertheless, vessels not heading to Iran will still be allowed to transit the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
Details of the Blockade
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), “The blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.”
CENTCOM has stated that it will not obstruct the freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz bound for non-Iranian ports, softening a previous statement from President Donald Trump regarding a complete blockade.
Background of the Tensions
This significant military action follows President Trump’s command for a naval blockade after extensive discussions between Washington and Tehran in Islamabad did not reach a consensus. Trump accused Iran of persisting in its nuclear ambitions, despite what he described as “largely productive negotiations.”
Trump’s Response to Negotiations
In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump highlighted that the talks “went well” and that “most points were agreed to.” However, he emphasized that Tehran remained inflexible on the most crucial issue—its nuclear ambitions.
Trump stated he was “fully debriefed” by Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner following the Pakistan-facilitated discussions.
Concerns Over Global Shipping
Trump expressed concern over Iran’s alleged threats to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, declaring that the situation has caused “anxiety, dislocation, and pain” to various nations across the globe. He noted, “They say they put mines in the water,” raising doubts about global shipping safety.
Immediate Actions from the US
Trump characterized the circumstances as “WORLD EXTORTION” and indicated that the US would take immediate, robust actions in response. He announced that “the United States Navy… will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.”
He warned that US forces would “seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran,” cautioning that there would be no safe passage for those who support illegal activities.
Warnings to Iran
Trump also mentioned plans for US naval units to initiate the clearance of mines supposedly laid by Iran and issued a stern warning: “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”
Future Prospects for Resolution
The blockade is set to remain until free navigation is restored, with Trump asserting that the current situation represents a violation of international norms. Nonetheless, he hinted at a potential resolution, suggesting that “at some point, we will reach an ‘ALL BEING ALLOWED TO GO IN, ALL BEING ALLOWED TO GO OUT’ basis,” while placing blame on Iran for thwarting progress.
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