U.S. Sets Deadline for Naval Blockade in Gulf Waters as Pressure Mounts on Iran

Washington/Dubai, April 13, 2026 - The United States has set a firm deadline of 10:00 a.m. ET today for the start of a naval blockade targeting all vessels entering or exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, escalating tensions following the collapse of high-level peace talks in Islamabad.

President Donald Trump announced the measure on Sunday after marathon negotiations between U.S. Vice President JD Vance's team and Iranian officials ended without a comprehensive agreement or extension of the fragile two-week ceasefire. The blockade, enforced by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), aims to increase pressure on Tehran while allowing freedom of navigation for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports.

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- ASIA ONE NEWS (@AsiaOne_News) April 13, 2026

CENTCOM confirmed that the operation would begin precisely at the stated deadline, with U.S. forces prepared to interdict any vessels attempting to access Iranian ports. President Trump issued a stern warning, stating that any Iranian fast-attack ships approaching the blockade would be "immediately eliminated."

The critical Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world's oil supply passes daily, remains open for international traffic not bound for Iran. However, shipping activity has already dropped sharply, with many tankers rerouting and insurance premiums surging dramatically.

Iran has condemned the blockade as "illegal piracy" and threatened a severe response, including potential retaliation against ports across the Persian Gulf. Regional analysts warn that any miscalculation could quickly unravel the ceasefire, which is set to expire around April 22, and trigger a wider conflict with major implications for global energy markets.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who facilitated the failed talks, has appealed for restraint and offered to continue mediation efforts. Israel has expressed strong support for the U.S. action, while global energy prices continue to climb amid the uncertainty.

As the deadline passed earlier today, early reports indicated the blockade is now in effect with no immediate incidents reported. The coming hours and days will test whether this pressure tactic forces Iran back to the negotiating table or pushes the region closer to open confrontation.