U.S. Begins Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz After Failed Middle East Negotiations – La Nación | 13/04/26

The United States began its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following the failure of bilateral negotiations with Iran, with a measure announced by President Donald Trump ordering the U.S. Navy to prevent the passage of vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, escalating tensions in a strategic waterway through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply flows. The decision stems from the lack of progress in talks and U.S. accusations that Iran placed mines and explosives restricting navigation, described as a form of “international extortion,” while Washington is also considering additional pressure measures, including potential strikes on critical Iranian infrastructure. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard stated it maintains control over the strait and warned that any foreign military presence will be met with a strong response, in a context where maritime traffic has already significantly declined since the conflict began and the measure threatens to further disrupt global energy flows. Link to Article