Tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz amid threats of closure
Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing a failure by the United States to lift a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Iranian officials warned that any vessel moving toward the Strait without authorization could be targeted, while U.S. President Donald Trump stated he is engaged in talks with Tehran but warned he may not extend the ceasefire if an agreement is not reached by Wednesday. Diplomatic efforts reportedly include potential meetings in Pakistan, although Washington has not confirmed these plans. Meanwhile, Mohsen Rezai, a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, issued threats to sink U.S. warships if they attempt to police the area. On the ground, despite the blockade, several tankers, including the Greek-owned Agios Fanourios I, have successfully navigated the strait along Iranian-approved routes. Data from Kpler suggests Iran has dominated raw material exports from the Gulf region since the conflict began on February 28. U.S. officials maintain that negotiations are ongoing and stress that they will not be coerced by Iranian threats.