War in Iran: Trump announces that the United States will set up a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

Donald Trump ordered an American naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, April 12, accusing Iran of refusing to abandon its nuclear ambitions. This came after direct talks between the two sides in Islamabad failed to end the Middle East war.

While Trump stated that the discussions, lasting over 20 hours, had gone well and that most points had been agreed upon, he announced on his Truth Social platform that Tehran had refused to compromise on the nuclear issue. He reiterated readiness to strike Iranian energy infrastructure in the absence of an agreement.

The United States justified its offensive with Israel on February 28, accusing Iran of seeking nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran denies. This offensive triggered a regional war, causing thousands of deaths mainly in Iran and Lebanon, and shaking the global economy.

The US will begin a “BLOCKADE process for all ships attempting to enter or exit the Strait of Hormuz,” where global oil, gas, and fertilizer transit. Trump provided no details on the operation, as Iran has controlled this strategic passage since the war began.

With Iranian Revolutionary Guards threatening to trap their enemies in a “deadly whirlpool,” claiming full control of traffic in the strait, Tehran has de facto established passage rights. Trump warned Iran against imposing any tolls, a move deemed unacceptable by the EU and divisive in the Gulf.

On April 11, the US army confirmed two destroyers passed through the strait for demining operations. Meanwhile, a US warship crossed the strait, while hundreds of commercial vessels remained stranded in the Gulf.

Context: The article highlights the escalating tensions between the US and Iran, leading to a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

Fact Check: While the article does mention certain events and statements attributed to political leaders, it’s crucial to verify the accuracy and context of the reported claims independently.