US Announces Naval Blockade on Iran After Islamabad Talks Fail

Iran Vs USA | In a major escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the United States has announced a strict naval blockade against Iran following the failure of high-level diplomatic talks held in Islamabad.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the blockade will come into effect from April 13 at 10:00 AM, targeting all maritime traffic entering or exiting Iranian ports. The decision applies universally to vessels from all nations, marking a significant move in international maritime security enforcement.

CENTCOM clarified that the blockade will cover all Iranian ports located in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. However, it emphasized that freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz will not be disrupted for ships transiting toward other international destinations.

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Maritime operators have been advised to monitor official communications, including the “Notice to Mariners”, and maintain contact with US naval forces via Bridge-to-Bridge Channel 16 while operating in sensitive zones.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that any vessel paying fees to Iran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be intercepted. He confirmed that the US Navy has been directed to identify and stop such ships in international waters with immediate effect.

This development significantly heightens geopolitical tensions and raises concerns over global oil supply routes and international shipping security in one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways.