US Naval Blockade of Iran to Target Enemy Ships Begins

US Imposes Naval Blockade on Iran, UK Says It Will Not Support Move

The United States has begun a naval blockade of Iran, effective Monday at 10am Washington time (14:00 GMT). The move comes after US President Donald Trump announced the blockade on Sunday, following failed talks with Iranian negotiators in Pakistan. Trump stated that the blockade will apply “without distinction” to ships engaging with Iranian ports and oil terminals.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations centre has confirmed that it was notified of the blockade’s implementation. According to the advisory, the restrictions encompass the entirety of the Iranian coastline, including ports and energy infrastructure.

In a statement, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that Save Share UK will not support the US blockade. No further details were provided on the UK’s stance.

The blockade has set the stage for potential escalation between the two countries, which have been engaged in a fragile ceasefire. Trump warned Iranian military ships on Monday to avoid approaching the blockade zone, stating that any ships doing so would be “immediately eliminated.”

Source: Al Jazeera