The Pentagon confirmed it will commence a full naval blockade of all Iranian ports at 14:00 GMT Monday, implementing President Trump's directive to seal off the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. The move represents the most aggressive action taken by the United States in the 45-day conflict with Iran.
The blockade announcement follows the collapse of peace negotiations that concluded Saturday in Pakistan's capital without resolution. Despite the two nations having agreed to a temporary ceasefire just days prior, talks aimed at establishing a long-term settlement failed to produce any breakthrough, pushing both sides toward renewed military confrontation.
Energy markets have responded sharply to the escalation, with crude oil prices surging past the $100-per-barrel threshold. The development has sparked significant volatility across Asian financial markets as traders grapple with the potential for sustained disruption to oil supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which typically accounts for roughly 20 percent of global crude shipments.
The conflict continues on multiple fronts, with Israeli military operations against Lebanese targets ongoing alongside the deteriorating US-Iran standoff. As tensions mount, international observers are monitoring both the economic impact of potential supply disruptions and the risk of further military escalation in the volatile Middle East region.
Originally reported by Al Jazeera English. Rewritten for ABN12.