Trump announces Strait of Hormuz blockade, issues strong warning to Iran

US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States Navy will immediately begin a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and will also stop vessels that have paid tolls to Iran.

In a statement on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said that recent talks between the US and Iran had concluded without an agreement.

He noted that while “most issues had been agreed upon”, differences remained over Iran’s nuclear programme.

He stated that the US Navy, which he described as the world’s most powerful, would immediately enforce a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, targeting all vessels entering or leaving the waterway.

Trump further said he had instructed the Navy to intercept any ship in international waters that had paid what he termed “illegal tolls” to Iran, warning that such vessels would not be guaranteed safe passage.

He added that the situation could eventually lead to controlled reopening of maritime routes, but accused Iran of obstructing this process by claiming the presence of naval mines in the strait.

Trump described the alleged toll collection as “global extortion” and insisted that the United States and other countries would not comply.

The US president also warned that Iranian naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz would be destroyed and issued a strong threat against any attacks on US forces or vessels.

He claimed that Iran’s naval and air capabilities had been severely weakened, and made further remarks about the country’s leadership and military systems.

Trump concluded by stating that the blockade would begin shortly, with other countries expected to join, adding that the US is fully prepared and would take further action against Iran if necessary.