President Trump announced Monday that the U.S. Navy is reinstating a blockade on Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz, declaring the vital waterway will remain open to international shipping. The move follows weekend U.S. strikes that targeted Iranian capabilities in the region.
In a social media post, Trump stated that the blockade, termed "THE IRANIAN BLOCKADE," will specifically target Iranian vessels or their customers attempting to enter or leave the strait, while ensuring unimpeded passage for all other nations. He proclaimed the United States would be known as "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and will seek reimbursement at a rate of 20% on all cargo shipped to cover the costs of maintaining security in the volatile area.
Trump indicated that the process and formation for this initiative would commence immediately.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed late Sunday that American forces conducted strikes against dozens of Iranian targets. These included missile and drone assets, small boats, coastal radar installations, and air-defense systems.
A U.S. naval blockade had previously been in place but was withdrawn prior to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Iran in mid-June.