Following the collapse of US-Iran negotiations, the US Military announced on Monday that it will block all maritime traffic entering or exiting ports in Iran, in way imposing an economic blockade by preventing the operation of crude and gas laden tankers, which are Iran’s major revenue source.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM), in a post on social media platform X, said, “Forces will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13 at 10 am ET, in accordance with the President’s proclamation.”

In the Indian context, the blockade comes into force around 7:30 pm on Monday.

CENTCOM said the blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all ports on the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. However, it clarified that CENTCOM forces will not impede freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports.

It means the US will be facilitating maritime trade at other countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait and Iraq. – Ajay Banerjee

Trump says he doesn’t care when Iran returns to negotiating table

April 13, 2026 8:34 am

Speaking to reporters outside Washington after flying back from Florida, Trump was asked how long it might be before Iranian officials returned to the negotiating table amid a fragile ceasefire. “I don’t care if they come back or not,” he replied. “If they don’t come back, I’m fine.”