US Announces Naval Blockade of Strait of Hormuz After Failed Iran Talks

The United States has announced a naval blockade of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, set to begin Monday at 10am ET, following the collapse of peace talks in Islamabad where Iran refused to compromise on its nuclear program. US Central Command confirmed the blockade will restrict all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, with President Donald Trump announcing the action on Sunday. The escalating tensions have caused oil prices to surge, with US crude rising eight percent to $104.24 a barrel, as the Strait of Hormuz carries approximately 20% of the world's crude oil daily. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated Britain will not support the blockade, emphasizing the need to keep the strategic waterway open to prevent higher energy bills.