Washington, USA – President Donald J. Trump has directed the United States Navy to commence a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, effective immediately, following a breakdown in high-stakes negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. The decision, announced on Sunday, April 12, 2026, followed a marathon 20-hour session in Islamabad, Pakistan, involving key mediators and representatives from both nations.
Okay News gathered that although the President noted significant progress on several points during the meeting, the talks ultimately stalled due to Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
Trump characterized the situation as “world extortion,” specifically citing Iran’s claims of mining the international waterway to disrupt global shipping. He emphasized that the United States would not be extorted and that the primary goal remains ensuring Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon. The blockade order authorizes the US Navy to interdict any vessel attempting to enter or exit the Strait.
Furthermore, the President has instructed the military to seize any ships in international waters found to have paid “illegal tolls” to Iran. US forces will also begin active operations to clear any mines laid in the waterway. Trump warned that the military remains “locked and loaded” to neutralize any Iranian elements that attempt to interfere with peaceful vessels or American operations.
The President acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir in hosting the talks.
He also noted that while his representatives—including Vice President JD Vance and Jared Kushner—had established a level of respect with their Iranian counterparts, the fundamental disagreement over nuclear status made a peaceful resolution impossible at this stage. This military escalation is expected to have immediate and profound consequences for global energy markets and maritime security.
