WASHINGTON D.C April 13, 2026 – U.S. Vice President JD Vance has sharply criticized Iran, accusing the Islamic Republic of committing “economic terrorism against the entire world” by disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
In a Fox News interview, Vance stated: “What they have done is engage in this act of economic terrorism against the entire world. They basically threaten any ship that’s moving through the Straits of Hormuz… If Iranians are going to try to engage in economic terrorism, we’re gonna abide by a simple principle: no Iranian ships are getting out either.”
The remarks come just one day after the United States imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports, a move described by Washington as a direct response to Iran’s closure of the vital waterway.
Background to the Crisis
The escalation stems from the ongoing 2026 U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict that began on February 28 with Operation Epic Fury — U.S. and Israeli strikes that targeted Iranian leadership and military infrastructure. Iran retaliated by mining and effectively sealing the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint that carries roughly 20% of global oil trade.
Peace talks hosted in Pakistan recently collapsed without agreement, prompting the U.S. to announce the port blockade on April 13.
Vance framed Iran’s actions as a desperate economic weapon after suffering heavy military losses, while defending America’s reciprocal blockade as necessary leverage to force Tehran back to the negotiating table.
The developments have sent shockwaves through global energy markets, driving oil prices higher and raising fears of broader economic fallout.
This story is developing. Life News Agency will continue to monitor the situation in the Gulf.
About The Author
