Strait of Hormuz at Risk? US President Donald Trump Plans Long Naval Strategy Against Iran

Washington: US President Donald Trump is preparing to maintain a long-term naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to increase pressure on Iran. This extended blockade on the world's most important oil route is believed to be an attempt to further weaken Iran's economy, further increasing tensions between the two countries.

Why is Trump doing long blockade?

The Trump administration believes that Tehran can be economically cornered by imposing tolls on the Strait of Hormuz for Iran and stopping its oil exports. Recently the US Navy attacked and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship near Hormuz. Trump himself wrote on social media that the American ship stopped the ship by firing a shell in its engine room. He clearly said that the blockade will continue until Iran makes a concrete agreement.

What is Iran's reaction?

Iran has accused America of "legalized piracy." The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has threatened to retaliate, citing incidents of seizing several ships. Tehran claims that some efforts by the US Navy were unsuccessful and Iranian forces forced them to retreat. Iran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but Trump has rejected it, saying Iran is in a state of "collapse".

Why is Hormuz important?

The Strait of Hormuz is a major chokepoint for world oil exports. Crores of barrels of oil pass through here every day. If the blockade continues here for a long time, global oil prices may increase and tensions in the Middle East may deepen.

What is the current status?

The US has increased the naval blockade on Iranian ports. Some reports say that Iran has been successful in exporting some oil with the help of new sea routes, but American pressure is quite effective. Iran's Foreign Ministry has accused America of disturbing regional stability.

What is Trump's strategy? 

Trump's goal is to force Iran to agree to an agreement on its nuclear program and regional activities. He has said that the blockade is harming Iran's economy and Tehran will have to present a proposal soon.
Concern is being expressed at the international level due to increasing tension between the two countries. At present the US Navy is active in the Strait of Hormuz and the situation is being monitored.