'Iran Port Blockade To Begin At 7:30 PM Today': Trump As West Asia Crisis Deepens

Last Updated:April 13, 2026, 12:13 IST

Earlier, Trump described the planned operation as “very effective,” underscoring Washington’s intent to tighten pressure on Tehran after peace talks failed in Pakistan

US President Donald Trump on Monday announced that the United States will begin a naval blockade of ships entering or exiting Iranian ports at 10:00 am Eastern Time (7:30 pm IST), signalling a major escalation as tensions in West Asia intensify following the collapse of ceasefire talks.

Earlier, he described the planned operation as “very effective," underscoring Washington’s intent to tighten pressure on Tehran after negotiations failed to produce a breakthrough.

“The United States to Blockade Ships Entering or Exiting Iranian Ports on April 13 at 10:00 A.M. ET. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.

Earlier, he told reporters before leaving for Washington, DC, that the decision followed the breakdown of marathon talks held over the weekend in Islamabad.

He claimed that multiple countries were working alongside the US to restrict Iran’s ability to export oil, a key source of revenue for Tehran.

While the initial rhetoric suggested a broader clampdown, US officials later indicated the move would stop short of closing the entire Strait of Hormuz.

The strait is one of the world’s most vital energy corridors, accounting for roughly 20% of global oil shipments before the conflict began. Although limited commercial traffic has resumed since the ceasefire, shipping activity remains far below normal levels.

Iran swiftly rejected the US plan, calling it unrealistic and provocative. Mohsen Rezaee, a member of Iran’s Expediency Council, said the blockade was “doomed to failure," warning that Iran’s armed forces would prevent any such action.

“Iran is not a place to be surrounded by tweets and imaginary plans," he said, according to state media.

Trump has repeatedly blamed Iran’s nuclear ambitions for the failure of the talks, insisting that Washington remains prepared to use all available options.

Tehran, however, has responded with defiance. Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued a blunt warning, saying, “If you fight, we will fight."

News world 'Iran Port Blockade To Begin At 7:30 PM Today': Trump As West Asia Crisis Deepens

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