US Begins Blockade of Iranian Ports Amid Rising Tensions
The US military has initiated a blockade of all Iranian ports and coastal regions, effective Monday. This move follows failed negotiations in Pakistan aimed at resolving ongoing conflicts. The US Central Command stated that the blockade will apply to vessels of all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports but will not impede traffic between non-Iranian ports. Iran's military has condemned the blockade as illegal and warned that no Gulf ports would be safe if its own were threatened. Oil prices surged, with US crude rising 8% to $104.24 per barrel and Brent crude increasing 7% to $102.29. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, has seen restricted traffic since the conflict began, with Iran allowing limited access for friendly nations. The situation continues to escalate following the breakdown of talks over Iran's nuclear programme and war reparations.
Published 2 days ago • 13 Apr 2026, 04:28 PM IST