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WASHINGTON D.C April 12, 2026 – President Donald J. Trump has directed the United States Navy to begin an immediate blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran following the collapse of high-stakes nuclear negotiations.
In a strongly worded Truth Social post, President Trump stated that while most issues in recent talks were resolved, the critical nuclear question remained unresolved. He described Iran’s actions as “world extortion” and vowed decisive military measures.
The full announcement, shared via the official White House Rapid Response account (@RapidResponse47), reads in part:
“So, there you have it, the meeting went well, most points were agreed to, but the only point that really mattered, NUCLEAR, was not. 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… THIS IS WORLD EXTORTION, and Leaders of Countries, especially the United States of America, will never be extorted… Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL! … we are fully ‘LOCKED AND LOADED,’ and our Military will finish up the little that is left of Iran!”
Trump further instructed the Navy to destroy Iranian-laid mines in the strait, interdict vessels that paid illegal tolls to Iran, and prepare for broader action if necessary. He noted that other countries would join the blockade effort.
The move comes amid the ongoing 2026 Strait of Hormuz crisis. Iran had previously disrupted shipping in the vital waterway — through which roughly 20% of global oil passes — by laying mines and imposing tolls, prompting US and allied responses. Recent marathon talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, reportedly lasting over 21 hours, broke down primarily over Iran’s refusal to fully dismantle its uranium enrichment programme and account for its remaining enriched uranium stockpile.
Political analysts say the blockade is designed to apply maximum pressure on Tehran while protecting international maritime commerce. Iran’s military capabilities have already been significantly degraded in recent months, with its navy and air force largely neutralised and several top leaders eliminated, according to US assessments.
The White House has not issued additional statements beyond amplifying the President’s post. The Pentagon has yet to provide operational details on the timing and scope of the naval deployment.
The announcement has sparked intense debate online, with supporters praising Trump’s firm stance against nuclear proliferation and critics warning of potential disruptions to global energy markets and further regional instability.
The situation remains fluid, with global oil prices already reacting to the news. Further updates are expected in the coming hours.
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