war

US to begin blockade of Strait of Hormuz

President Trump ordered a naval blockade of vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz to begin Monday at 10:00 Washington time after failed peace talks, with US Central Command confirming impartial enforcement and interception of ships that paid an alleged Iranian toll.

Apr 13th 2026 · United States

Insights

  • Blockade will start Monday at 10:00 Washington time (14:00 GMT), according to US Central Command.
  • Centcom said the blockade will be applied impartially to ships entering or leaving Iranian ports in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
  • US forces will not impede ships traveling to or from non Iranian ports and will issue a formal notice to merchant mariners before the blockade begins.
  • President Trump said the Navy will search and intercept vessels that have paid an alleged illegal toll to Iran and warned such ships will not have safe passage.
  • Oil prices rose and stock markets fell after the weekend failure of peace talks and the blockade announcement.

Sources