WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump ordered the US Navy on April 12 to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions after Iran refused to abandon its nuclear program following collapsed peace talks.
In a fiery Truth Social post, Trump declared the navy would immediately block all ships entering or leaving the strait, a vital chokepoint for one-fifth of global crude oil, gas, and fertiliser shipments—until Iran clears its mines and reopens passage. “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” he wrote. “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards retorted they control the waterway and would ensnare challengers in a “deadly vortex.” Tehran has restricted traffic for weeks, favouring allies like China while reportedly planning tolls, which Trump branded “world extortion.” He directed the navy to seize toll-paying vessels in international waters and destroy Iranian mines.
The move follows Vice President J.D. Vance’s fruitless weekend talks in Pakistan with Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the highest US-Iran contact since 1979. Aimed at cementing a two-week ceasefire after over six weeks of US-Israel bombing that killed thousands and spiked markets, the meeting yielded no deal. “We leave here with a very simple proposal… our final and best offer,” Vance told reporters.
Trump, briefed by Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and son-in-law Jared Kushner, accused Iran of false promises despite its navy’s devastation. Two US warships transited the strait on April 11 to start mine clearance. In a Fox News interview, Trump threatened 50 percent tariffs on Chinese imports if Beijing aids Iran militarily and boasted he could “take out Iran in one day,” targeting its energy and power plants.
Trump hinted at allied involvement without details and warned US forces stand “LOCKED AND LOADED” to finish Iran if needed, amid unconfirmed reports of Tehran’s toll scheme choking global trade.