US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the start of a naval blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports beginning Monday. This move followed President Trump's announcement and escalates tensions since US-Israeli strikes began on February 28th. Iran's Revolutionary Guard countered, claiming the strait remains under its control and warning of a forceful response to military vessels.
President Trump declared that the U.S. will blockade the Strait of Hormuz to prevent Iran from extorting vessels. This move follows a ceasefire in the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, with the U.S. Navy initiating blockade procedures. Iran's navy countered, stating the strait was not closed and that military approaches violate the ceasefire.
Prime Minister Netanyahu strongly backed the US President's naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, citing Iran's violation of negotiation commitments. He emphasized close coordination with the US and affirmed the continuation of military operations. Netanyahu warned that Iran's nuclear ambitions pose an existential threat, stressing Israel's self-defense capabilities.
International crude oil prices surged past $100 per barrel after talks between the US and Iran broke down, with the US threatening to blockade the Strait of Hormuz. Both WTI and Brent crude saw sharp increases, fueling the upward trend seen since US-Israeli attacks on Iran in February. This incident signals a peak in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.