In the escalating Strait of Hormuz crisis—now in its fourth week after Iran's March blockade—the US has started enforcing President Donald Trump's April 13 sanctions by blocking ships carrying drones to and from Iranian ports. The move intensifies pressure on Tehran to reopen the vital oil chokepoint amid failed nuclear talks.
Following Trump's announcement of a naval counter-blockade after peace talks collapsed in Islamabad, US forces have begun intercepting vessels bound for Iranian ports, with a focus on those transporting drones. Three warships, including an aircraft carrier, are deployed in the Sea of Oman to enforce the measures.
Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that attacks on its vessels could destabilize the region, urging the US to drop 'fabricated pretexts.' Israel has voiced support for the action, while the United Kingdom has opposed it.
Global oil prices remain above $100 per barrel due to the standoff, exacerbating supply disruptions covered in prior updates on the crisis.
