With peace negotiations between the United States and Iran breaking down in Pakistan, the fragile ceasefire is again on the brink of collapse. US President Donald Trump has again upped the war rhetoric, saying the US navy will now blockade the Strait of Hormuz.
The president said the US would intercept ships that had paid Iran a toll to pass through the strait, accusing Iran of “extortion” in charging the fee.
However, the New York Times is reporting the US military plans to block only Iranian ports and coastal areas, while allowing other vessels to pass through, which appears to be a softening of the president’s initial statement. It reported the blockade would begin on Monday morning, US eastern time.
