Trump Orders Blockade of Strait of Hormuz

The United States has enforced a naval blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz after peace talks between the two countries fell through this week. 

U.S. Vice President JD Vance accused Iran of “economic terrorism” for blocking the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes.

“Two can play at that game,” Vance told Fox News, defending the US move.“If the Iranians are going to try to engage in economic terrorism, we’re going to abide by the simple principle that no Iranian ships are getting out, either,” he added.

The blockade began Monday morning, just hours after weekend peace talks in Pakistan failed. U.S. President Donald Trump warned that U.S. forces would sink any Iranian “fast attack ships” approaching the blockade. A U.S. official confirmed that at least 15 American naval vessels, including an aircraft carrier, are in the region, CNN reports.

Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi called the US actions “provocative” and warned of “dangerous consequences” for global peace. In calls with Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, Araghchi said the blockade could destabilise the wider region. Iran’s military has been placed on “maximum combat alert”, according to officials in its capital city.

Meanwhile, US officials say communication with Iran continues despite the breakdown in talks. A second in-person meeting is being discussed, CNN reports.