The United States has announced that it will impose a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz starting today (Monday). According to the US Central Command, vessels passing through the strait will be stopped beginning this evening.
US President Donald Trump said the objective of the blockade is to prevent Iran from exporting oil. Trump also claimed that several other countries are supporting the United States in this effort. He further stated that the Iranian military has suffered heavy damage, its navy has been nearly destroyed, and 158 vessels have been wrecked.
Following the announcement of the blockade, global oil prices surged. West Texas Intermediate crossed $104 per barrel, while Brent crude exceeded $102 per barrel.
Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported that after talks in Pakistan failed, the United States is considering a second military strike against Iran.
The White House stated that “all options remain on the table” and that further decisions will be made depending on the situation.
Despite 21 hours of negotiations held in Pakistan over the weekend, the United States and Iran failed to reach an agreement, putting the two-week ceasefire declared last Tuesday into uncertainty.
President Trump also remarked that it does not matter to him whether Iran returns to the negotiating table or not.
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