Washington: The United States has intensified naval restrictions around the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, further escalating tensions with Iran amid strained diplomatic ties.
According to the United States Central Command, stricter control measures are being enforced on vessels moving to and from Iranian ports, with at least 37 ships reportedly redirected.
Officials said a merchant vessel, identified as “Sevan”, which was intercepted in the Arabian Sea, has been instructed to return to Iran as part of the ongoing enforcement measures.
The developments follow an announcement by former US President Donald Trump on April 12 regarding steps to block ships entering or leaving the Hormuz passage. The situation has been further aggravated by the failure of recent US-Iran talks.
Reacting to the developments, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that any disruption to the strait’s security could have significant consequences for global trade.
Meanwhile, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it would respond if the US continues its actions, raising concerns of a broader confrontation in the region.
In another move, Trump is reported to have cancelled a planned visit by US representatives to Islamabad for further talks, stating that Washington holds leverage in the situation and signalling a hardening stance.
The latest developments have heightened security concerns in West Asia, with the Strait of Hormuz—through which a significant portion of global oil trade passes—once again at the centre of geopolitical tensions.
