Washington: US President Donald Trump has ordered aides to plan a longer naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The Wall Street Journal, citing US officials, says the strategy seeks to cripple Iran’s economy and compel compromises in its nuclear activities.
The decision follows after stalled negotiations, with the White House concluding that prolonging the blockade poses fewer dangers than launching fresh airstrikes or pulling out altogether.
According to the Wall Street Journal report, the call emerged from a top-level session in the White House Situation Room. According to the US officials, the extended blockade’s key demand is halting Iran’s uranium enrichment for a minimum of 20 years. The blockade is designed to hit the economic lifeline of Iran.
The report, quoting unnamed US officials, indicates they evaluated two alternatives: restarting airstrikes or pulling out of the conflict. Both were deemed riskier, positioning the blockade was a prudent middle option.
Iran Resists as Ports Pile Up Ships
Trump claimed that Iran is in a “state of collapse” and urged them to get smart soon. Iran wants an end to the war and lifting of the blockade, but remains adamant on delaying the nuclear discussion, while Washington claims a nuclear concession was non-negotiable.
“Prior to the U.S. blockade on Iran, 5 ships were moored or anchored in the Iranian port of Chah Bahar on an average day. Today, more than 20 vessels remain in Chah Bahar as U.S. forces cut off economic trade going into and coming out of Iran during the ongoing blockade,” said a post by the CENTCOM on the social media platform X.
