13.04.2026 07:30
After 21 hours of negotiations between the US and Iran ended without results, Washington decided to initiate a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran announced that it would respond harshly. As tensions rise in the region, considered the heart of global oil supply, Brent crude oil increased by 7%, surpassing $102. Experts warn that a potential conflict could deeply shake the world economy.
After the critical negotiations between the US and Iran in Islamabad lasting 21 hours ended without an agreement, the crisis has escalated to a new level. US President Donald Trump's decision to blockade the Strait of Hormuz has created a shock effect in global energy markets.
TRUMP ORDERS BLOCKADE: WE WILL DESTROY THE MINES
Speaking after the negotiations ended without an agreement, Trump announced that the US Navy would take action in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated, "We will establish a system where everyone can enter and exit. We will start destroying the mines laid by the Iranians." He also emphasized that there would be a strong response if there were attacks on the US or civilian ships.
US ARMY SETS A TIME: BLOCKADE OFFICIALLY BEGINS
Following Trump's announcement, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) shared the details of the naval blockade. According to the statement, a blockade will be implemented on all ships entering and exiting Iranian ports as of 17:00 Turkey time. It was noted that the blockade would cover all Iranian coastlines, including the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
IRAN'S STRONG RESPONSE: WE WILL TRAP YOU IN A DEADLY WHIRLPOOL
Iran responded strongly to the US's move. The Revolutionary Guards stated that all traffic in the Strait of Hormuz is under control, declaring, "Any wrong move will trap the enemy in a deadly whirlpool." It was also reported that military ships approaching the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and would be met with a strong response.
Iran's Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf also challenged the US, saying, "If you fight, we will fight; if you approach with logic, we will respond with logic. We will not bow to any threat."
THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ IS AT THE CENTER OF THE CRISIS
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical energy transit points, is at the center of the crisis. Any potential conflict in this region, through which approximately 20% of global oil supply passes, poses risks that could directly affect the world economy.
OIL PRICES SOARED
Following the developments, oil markets reacted sharply. Prices, which had recently declined with hopes of a ceasefire, quickly rose with the blockade decision. Brent crude oil increased by 7% to reach $102.29.
TWO SCENARIOS ON THE TABLE: LONG NEGOTIATION OR WAR
According to experts, the parties will either enter into a long-term new negotiation process or face the risk of a large-scale conflict encompassing the region. The current hardline stance of the parties weakens the likelihood of a compromise in the short term while indicating that tensions will continue.