U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan ended without agreement, and AP reported the U.S. is moving to blockade or restrict shipping tied to the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM also said it began mine-clearance operations in the strait, while the White House has said Iran agreed to reopen it under a ceasefire framework.
U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan ended without agreement on April 12, adding a new escalation to the fighting around Iran and the wider Gulf.
The Associated Press reported that President Donald Trump said the U.S. Navy would begin a blockade tied to the Strait of Hormuz. AP also reported that U.S. Central Command said it would begin a blockade of Iranian ports and ships entering or leaving the waterway.
CENTCOM separately said on April 11 that U.S. forces had begun setting conditions to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The move points to a growing focus on keeping the shipping lane open even as tensions rise.
The latest reporting lands against a backdrop of conflicting U.S. statements. The White House said on April 8 that Iran had agreed to a ceasefire and reopening of the strait as part of a broader peace process. But AP reported the latest talks ended without a deal.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important oil shipping routes, and any disruption there could affect global energy flows.
Revision note
Initial automated publication.