US naval blockade of Iranian ports escalates Gulf tensions, triggers oil price surge

The United States has announced a naval blockade targeting all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, significantly escalating tensions in the Gulf region after diplomatic talks with Iran failed to yield a breakthrough.

According to US Central Command, the blockade came into effect on April 13 and applies to vessels linked to Iranian ports across the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

However, officials clarified that ships transiting between non-Iranian ports would still be allowed to pass, indicating a calibrated approach rather than a complete shutdown of regional shipping routes.

The move follows the collapse of US-Iran negotiations aimed at ending weeks of conflict, with both sides unable to reach an agreement during recent talks.

US President Donald Trump has warned that vessels assisting Iran could face consequences, signalling a tougher stance as Washington seeks to restrict Tehran’s oil exports and regional influence.

The blockade is expected to disrupt global oil supplies by preventing a significant portion of Iranian crude from reaching international markets. Estimates suggest that nearly two million barrels per day of Iranian oil exports could be affected.

Markets reacted sharply to the development, with global oil prices surging more than 7 per cent and crossing the $100 per barrel mark amid fears of prolonged supply constraints.

Iran has strongly criticised the move and warned of retaliation, including potential action against ports in neighbouring Gulf countries if its own maritime routes are targeted.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy trade, has already seen severe disruption since the conflict began, with shipping activity significantly reduced and tensions remaining high.

The latest escalation has heightened concerns about a wider regional conflict and its economic fallout, particularly for energy-importing countries that rely heavily on Gulf oil supplies.