U.S. naval blockade on Iran comes into force as Hormuz tensions rise
BlockBeats reported that on April 14, the United States' maritime blockade on Iran took effect overnight local time. Washington has deployed more than 15 warships, and U.S. forces have begun intercepting vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Former President Donald Trump said 158 Iranian naval vessels had been destroyed and warned that any "fast attack craft" approaching the blockade zone would be eliminated immediately.
Shipping data show oil tankers are increasingly rerouting to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, adding fresh disruption to regional traffic. The International Energy Agency said fighting in Iran has damaged more than 80 oil and gas facilities.
Tehran struck a defiant tone. Iran's acting defense minister said the armed forces have moved to the highest level of alert. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it would adopt new methods of combat if the conflict continues. Iran's military also said it would establish a "permanent mechanism" to control the Strait of Hormuz, warning that if the security of ports in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman is threatened, the security of all regional ports will become "either for everyone or for no one." In response to Trump's blockade threat, a spokesperson for Iran's Supreme National Security Council called it "bluffing."
Diplomacy is moving in parallel. U.S. and Iranian officials said negotiations are still ongoing, with the main dispute centered on how long uranium enrichment would be suspended: the U.S. is seeking 20 years, while Iran is pushing for a shorter period. Russian media reported the next round of talks could take place on the 16th in Islamabad, Pakistan; Pakistan's defense minister also said prospects for restarting talks remain viable. Iranian Foreign Minister Alirzaei spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov to coordinate on the latest developments. Iran's deputy speaker also said Iran had prepared to dilute 450 kilograms of enriched uranium as a goodwill gesture.
On the Lebanon front, Israel has continued airstrikes in southern Lebanon, with at least seven people reported killed. The Israeli military said it has expanded operations, killing more than 100 Hezbollah fighters, and is seeking to establish a deeper security buffer zone. Israel's prime minister said the ceasefire with Iran "may end soon" and publicly backed Trump's blockade position. Hezbollah's leader said the group will not disarm and will continue resisting. Lebanon's foreign minister said direct talks between Lebanon and Israel have confirmed the Lebanon file and the Iran file are separate, and both tracks are advancing in parallel.
