The United States announces a total maritime blockade of Iranian ports, a major escalation in the Gulf.
The United States announces a total maritime blockade of Iranian ports, a major escalation in the Gulf.

The United States announced that it would impose a maritime blockade on all ships entering and leaving Iranian ports, starting Monday. This decision, confirmed by the US Central Command, marks a new stage in the escalating tensions in the Gulf.

According to CENTCOM, the blockade will be implemented starting at 10:00 AM Eastern Time (14:00 PM GMT) and will affect all maritime traffic related to Iranian ports and coastal areas, including those in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The blockade will apply "without discrimination" to all ships, regardless of their nationality.

This announcement follows a statement from the president Donald TrumpCENTCOM indicated that the US Navy would begin blockading the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil trade. However, CENTCOM clarified that freedom of navigation would be maintained for ships transiting the strait not destined for Iranian ports.

This measure constitutes direct pressure on Tehran, in the context of an already explosive regional conflict. Such a blockade could have major economic consequences, both for Iran and for global energy markets, which are heavily dependent on maritime transit in the region.

Observers now fear a reaction from Iran, which could view this decision as a major provocation. The situation in the Gulf appears more volatile than ever, with an increased risk of military escalation in the coming days.

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