Donald Trump is poised to initiate a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz imminently. The US military is gearing up to impose restrictions on all Iranian ports and coastal regions starting Monday, following Trump’s pledge to take charge of the strait. Ceasefire discussions in Pakistan concluded without a resolution over the weekend, leading the US Central Command to confirm that the blockade will commence at 10 am ET (3 pm UK time). Notably, passage through the strait will still be permitted for ships traveling between non-Iranian ports, despite Iran’s Revolutionary Guard asserting Iranian sovereignty over the area.
Expressing dissent towards the planned blockade, Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that the UK will not partake in the endeavor. Trump, in a separate context, criticized Pope Leo, remarking that the pontiff is not performing adequately. His comments came after the Catholic leader condemned the US for its perceived overconfidence in the conflict.
Trump, upon returning to Washington, dismissed the significance of Iranian officials resuming negotiations, stating his indifference to their participation. He mentioned that Iran had expressed intentions to pursue nuclear armament during recent talks led by Vice President JD Vance, asserting that Iran will not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi decried the US for its perceived intransigence and imposition of a blockade during the peace negotiations. Additionally, Iran’s navy commander Shahram Irani announced that they are closely monitoring US military movements in the region, labeling Trump’s threats of a naval blockade as absurd and laughable.
As tensions escalate, oil prices have surged following Trump’s announcement of the blockade on Iranian ports, reaching over $100 a barrel. The UK is collaborating with France and other allies to establish a coalition aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation in the region. In a joint effort, Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have concurred on the necessity of a broad coalition to address the situation.
Moreover, the UK is organizing discussions with partner nations to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and explore diplomatic strategies to pressure Iran into compliance. Starmer reiterated the UK’s stance against participating in the blockade, emphasizing the importance of keeping the strait open for global trade and energy supplies.
In a separate development, Trump, via social media, posted an unconventional image of himself portrayed as Jesus Christ on Truth Social. Amidst his online activity, he continued to lambaste Pope Leo while emphasizing his opposition to the pontiff’s views on nuclear weapons.