Tensions escalated sharply after US President Donald Trump announced that the United States would move to block the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes. The decision came soon after peace talks between the US and Iran collapsed during high-level discussions in Islamabad, leaving both sides without any agreement.
The announcement, made just hours after the negotiations ended, signals a major escalation that could push the region closer to open confrontation. Reports also indicate that US Navy destroyers have begun operating inside the strait, a rare move not seen since tensions flared on February 28.
The breakdown followed marathon talks that lasted nearly 21 hours. US Vice President JD Vance, who led the American delegation, confirmed that discussions ended without progress. He said Washington had offered Tehran a final proposal demanding the abandonment of its nuclear ambitions and an end to maritime conflict in the region, but Iran rejected it. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, however, claimed the two sides were close to an agreement before the US changed its position unexpectedly.
The US Central Command is expected to begin enforcing the blockade at 10:00 am EDT (5:30 pm Iran time). Washington describes the move as an effort to dismantle what it calls Iran’s “permission-based” control over the strait. Over the past month, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has reportedly exercised control over parts of the route and imposed heavy charges on commercial vessels for passage.
Trump has condemned these charges as illegal and ordered the US Navy to intercept vessels that comply with Iran’s toll system. He stated that no ship paying such fees would be allowed safe passage, calling the policy absolute.
Under US naval doctrine, a blockade involves preventing all vessels—friendly or hostile—from entering or leaving designated enemy-controlled waters. While Trump initially said the move would take effect immediately, he later acknowledged it would require time to fully implement.
The US Central Command clarified that the blockade would target all ships traveling to or from Iranian ports, including those connected to the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Trump also suggested that allied nations, including NATO members, may assist in operations such as minesweeping, though no specific countries were confirmed.
Despite this, some maritime experts believe the practical impact may be limited, noting that relatively few ships currently transit the strait and that most avoid paying Iranian fees due to existing sanctions risks.
The policy applies broadly to all nations, meaning vessels from countries such as India or China are not exempt. However, enforcement is expected to focus on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports like Bandar Abbas or Kharg Island. Vessels simply passing through the strait to other destinations are expected to be allowed through.
The situation is particularly concerning for countries heavily dependent on the route. India, for example, relies on the Strait of Hormuz for a large share of its oil and fertiliser imports. With around 150 tankers reportedly stuck and unable to move, shipping delays and costs are already rising.
The broader objective of the US appears to be cutting off a key revenue stream for Iran’s military and ending its influence over maritime movement in the strait. Washington is also seeking to pressure Tehran back into negotiations over its nuclear programme.
Iran has warned in response that it still maintains control over the waterway and has threatened severe consequences if US operations continue.
Oil markets reacted immediately, with prices surging over 7 percent. Brent crude crossed $102 a barrel while WTI also climbed sharply. Analysts warn that Asian economies, which depend heavily on Gulf oil imports, are likely to feel the strongest impact.
The crisis follows the most extensive US-Iran direct talks since 1979. Despite the long negotiations involving senior officials from both sides and hosted in Islamabad, the talks ultimately collapsed over unresolved demands related to Iran’s nuclear programme and regional activities.
