US–Iran Tensions Spike as Trump Orders Naval Action in Hormuz
News Desk
Islamabad: Tensions between the United States and Iran have sharply escalated after US President Donald Trump announced new military directives targeting Iranian activity in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
In statements posted on Truth Social, Trump claimed that the US has established “complete control” over the waterway, asserting that no vessel can pass without approval from the US Navy.
He also said he had ordered US forces to immediately strike any Iranian boats involved in laying naval mines, while accelerating ongoing mine-clearing operations in the area.
The move signals a significant escalation in maritime pressure on Iran, with Washington appearing to use its naval presence to push Tehran toward negotiations. Trump described the measures as temporary, aimed at forcing Iran into a deal, and also pointed to alleged divisions within Iran’s leadership.
US officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have claimed that American forces have inflicted heavy damage on Iran’s naval fleet. However, such claims remain contested, with reports indicating that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard still retains operational fast-attack boats and surveillance capabilities.
In response, Iran has taken countermeasures, increasing its control over nearby sea routes and seizing foreign vessels it accuses of violating maritime rules. Recently detained ships include the Liberian-flagged Epamenondas and the Panamanian MSC Francesca, according to Iranian media.
The developments come at a sensitive time, as diplomatic efforts — including mediation initiatives involving Pakistan — seek to bring both sides back to talks. Iran has demanded an end to the US naval blockade as a precondition for negotiations, a demand Washington has so far rejected.
With military actions intensifying and diplomacy stalled, the Strait of Hormuz has once again become a flashpoint with serious implications for regional stability and global energy supplies.
