US Navy accused of piracy in enforcing Iran maritime blockade

US President Donald Trump has stated that the ongoing naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is a profitable business. During a rally in Florida on Friday, Trump described an operation where US forces seized a ship amid the blockade of Iranian ports. “We took over the ship, we took over the cargo, and we took over the oil,” he said. He also referred to the US Navy as “like pirates” but added that they are not playing games.

The blockade was imposed on April 13, following a ceasefire between the US and Iran that came into effect on April 8. The blockade is in place despite ongoing negotiations to end the war, mediated by Pakistan. Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s latest peace proposal and warned that he would “blast them away” if negotiations failed.

Iranian officials have responded to the blockade, stating that a resumption of the war is likely due to concerns about US commitment to any agreement. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also criticized the US for its actions, calling it an “undeniable right and solemn duty” to demand accountability from the Trump administration over the US-Israel conflict.

The 1973 War Powers Resolution requires the president to secure authorization from Congress within 60 days of a conflict involving US forces. However, some experts believe that President Trump is attempting to undermine this law by redefining the timeline of the war and avoiding Congressional oversight.

Source: Al Jazeera