Trump announces immediate U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

Sunday 12 April 2026 - 14:15

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will immediately begin a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in one of the world’s most strategic maritime routes.

In a statement posted on social media, the U.S. president said the U.S. Navy would take action against any vessel attempting to enter or leave the strait, as well as ships accused of paying fees to Iran for passage through the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, with a significant share of the world’s oil and gas trade passing through it daily. Any disruption in the area has the potential to impact global energy markets.

Trump’s announcement came shortly after reported talks between the United States and Iran ended without reaching a formal agreement. While he suggested that some progress had been made, disagreements reportedly remained over Iran’s nuclear program.

According to his statement, U.S. naval forces have been instructed to monitor international waters and intercept vessels that comply with what Washington considers illegal toll payments to Iran.

The move marks a significant escalation in maritime security policy and is expected to draw strong international reactions, particularly from countries dependent on energy shipments through the region.