US Announces Blockade of Iranian Ports; Trump Claims Destruction of 158 Vessels
Islamabad: The United States has reportedly initiated a naval blockade targeting Iran, restricting maritime traffic to and from its ports in a major escalation of tensions.
According to a statement by United States Central Command, all ships heading toward Iranian ports or coastal areas will be denied access. However, vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz en route to other countries will not be stopped.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed in a social media post that 158 Iranian naval vessels had been completely destroyed. He further asserted that Iran’s navy is effectively incapacitated, stating that most of its fleet now lies at the bottom of the sea.
Trump added that remaining Iranian fast-attack craft are not considered a significant threat to the blockade but warned they would be immediately targeted if they approached U.S. forces.
In his statement, the president also claimed that 98.2% of narcotics smuggled into the United States via sea routes have been stopped, attributing this to enhanced maritime operations.
The development comes after recent talks between the United States and Iran, reportedly held in Pakistan, ended without any breakthrough.
Analysts warn that such a blockade could have far-reaching consequences, potentially impacting Iran’s economy as well as global oil supply chains and international trade.
