The United States military has announced plans to begin a naval blockade of Iranian ports from Monday, escalating tensions in the Gulf region following the collapse of recent peace talks with Tehran in Pakistan.
The move comes despite a ceasefire agreed earlier this week, intended to halt the six-week conflict until 22 April. The latest development has raised concerns about the durability of the truce and the risk of renewed hostilities.
In a statement, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said the blockade would apply to vessels of all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The operation is set to begin at 1400 GMT on Monday.
However, US authorities clarified that ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz between non-Iranian ports would not be obstructed.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy route, and tensions surrounding its control have been central to the ongoing dispute. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has warned it retains full control over maritime traffic in the area and would respond forcefully to any perceived threats.
US President Donald Trump said the objective of the blockade is to ensure safe navigation by clearing mines and reopening the waterway to international shipping, while preventing Iran from exerting economic leverage over the route.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected the US move, stating that Tehran would not yield to external pressure. Iran’s navy chief also dismissed the blockade threat, describing it as unrealistic.
The announcement follows the breakdown of high-level negotiations in Islamabad, which were the most significant engagement between the two sides since the Iranian Revolution. The talks failed to produce an agreement, with both parties blaming each other for the impasse.
Washington has insisted that Iran abandon its nuclear ambitions, while Tehran maintains its right to pursue a peaceful nuclear programme.
US Vice-President JD Vance said a “final offer” had been presented, but its acceptance remains uncertain.
Analysts warn that the blockade could effectively signal a renewed phase of the conflict, with potential consequences for global energy markets and regional stability.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has urged both sides to uphold the ceasefire and continue diplomatic efforts. However, ongoing tensions in Lebanon and statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have added to fears that the fragile truce may not hold.
Observers caution that without a diplomatic breakthrough, the situation could further deteriorate, affecting not only the region but also global shipping and energy supply chains.
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