US begins naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON: The United States has reportedly begun enforcing a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, marking a major escalation in regional tensions.

According to reports, the US Navy is actively ensuring the implementation of the blockade.

A senior US official told Al Jazeera that military forces are prepared to enforce and maintain the restriction, although clear rules of engagement for violations have not yet been outlined.

The official added that US forces and equipment are sufficient to sustain the operation for as long as required, in line with directives from President Donald Trump.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced what he described as a major defensive move in the Middle East, declaring a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

He stated that Iran had failed to meet its commitments to the international community and would be prevented from exporting oil through the route.

He further warned that any vessel paying illegal tolls to Iran would not be guaranteed safe passage in international waters.

Trump also reiterated that Iran would not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and said he no longer considered whether Tehran would return to negotiations.

Donald Trump claimed that Iran’s naval capability had been severely degraded, alleging that “Iranian naval forces are lying at the bottom of the sea” and asserting that 158 Iranian vessels had been destroyed.

He warned that any ships approaching the blockade zone would be “immediately destroyed,” while also highlighting ongoing maritime operations targeting drug smuggling routes. Trump further claimed that 98% of drugs entering the United States via sea routes have been intercepted.

Following the announcement, maritime conditions in the region became increasingly tense. Reports indicate that several oil tankers began diverting away from the affected waters, while a Maltese-flagged vessel carrying Iraqi crude reportedly reversed course and anchored in the Gulf of Oman amid the escalating situation.