Just Earth News | @justearthnews | 12 Apr 2026
#Trump Strait of Hormuz blockade #US Iran tensions 2026 #Iran nuclear deal talks fail #Hormuz shipping crisis
Representative AI composed image of Donald Trump and Mojtaba Khamenei in backdrop of Iran war. Photo: Gemini
Donald Trump on Sunday said the United States Navy would begin blockading ships in the Strait of Hormuz following Iran’s refusal to give up its nuclear ambitions after high-stakes talks held in Pakistan.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump said the negotiations lasted nearly 20 hours but failed on the key issue of Iran’s nuclear programme.
“Iran is unwilling to give up its nuclear ambitions… the only point that really mattered was not agreed,” he said.
US Navy to Begin Blockade
Trump announced that the US would immediately move to block maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil routes.
“Effective immediately, the United States Navy… will begin the process of blockading any and all ships trying to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
He also said US forces would interdict vessels in international waters that had paid tolls to Iran, warning that such ships would not be granted safe passage.
Strong Warning to Iran
The US President further warned of military action if provoked.
“We will also begin destroying the mines the Iranians laid in the straits. Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be blown to hell,” Trump said.
He added that multiple countries would participate in the blockade and accused Iran of engaging in “illegal extortion.”
No Breakthrough in Pakistan Talks
Meanwhile, JD Vance confirmed that no progress was made during the marathon negotiations between the US and Iran.
After nearly 21 hours of discussions, Vance said Tehran had “chosen not to accept” Washington’s terms.
“The President said we have to come in good faith and try to make a deal. Unfortunately, there was no headway,” he said.
Ongoing Conflict and Global Impact
The conflict, which began on February 28, has already killed thousands, disrupted global markets, and heightened instability across the Gulf region.
The Pakistan talks marked one of the highest-level engagements between the US and Iran since the Iranian Revolution, but failed to deliver any breakthrough.