Trump orders US Navy to open fire in Hormuz, ramps up pressure on Iran
Photo: Donald Trump (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump announced a sharp escalation of pressure on Iran, ordering the Navy to act aggressively in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Bloomberg.
US ramps up pressure on Iran
The United States has increased pressure on Iran, effectively imposing a maritime blockade. Washington aims to force Tehran back to negotiations. At the same time, Israel and Lebanon are considering extending their ceasefire for another three weeks.
Trump’s order to the US Navy
President Donald Trump ordered US naval forces to open fire on any vessel involved in laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The decision followed the interception of two oil supertankers that attempted to bypass restrictions on movement to and from Iranian ports.
Economic pressure through oil
This move is part of the White House strategy to limit Iranian oil exports. Washington intends to intensify economic pressure by cutting Tehran’s key foreign currency revenues and forcing concessions.
“I have all the time in the World, but Iran doesn’t — The clock is ticking!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Timeline and market reaction
Trump’s supporters believe the blockade could halt Iran’s oil production in about two weeks. Meanwhile, analysts at JPMorgan suggest it could take about a month to achieve such a result.
Situation in the Strait of Hormuz
Following the start of the operation, some vessels linked to Iran changed routes and avoided the strait. However, some tankers continue to pass through, which, according to ship-tracking firms, may allow Iran to withstand the pressure longer.
It is worth noting that since the start of the conflict with Iran, the United States has used about 1,100 long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles, originally intended for a potential confrontation with China. Their use has already exceeded annual procurement levels, with more than a thousand missiles launched.
It is also noted that the Trump administration has developed several scenarios for possible measures against countries that refused to support Washington in the war against Iran.