The US military will implement a blockade of all Iranian ports, a move that escalates tensions over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump announced the blockade after negotiations with Iran in Pakistan failed, with the US President citing Tehran's refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
The US Central Command stated the blockade will apply impartially to vessels entering or departing Iranian ports, beginning Monday. However, US forces will not impede vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports.
Trump confirmed the operation on social media, noting it was more limited than initially proposed. Iran's Revolutionary Guards had previously warned of full control over traffic through the strait.
The breakdown in talks dashed hopes for a lasting end to the ongoing conflict. Oil prices jumped approximately 8% on Monday following the announcement.
Iran's parliament speaker stated Tehran would not yield to threats, with the navy chief calling the blockade threat "ridiculous." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi blamed "maximalism, shifting goalposts, and blockade" for the failed negotiations.
US Navy warships recently transited the Hormuz to begin clearing mines, a claim denied by Tehran. The conflict, which began in late February, has already impacted the global economy.