The United States has started a blockade of Iran’s ports and coastal areas, including a partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on 13 April 2026 (NBC News, 14/04/2026). The US announced that transit crossing the Strait of Hormuz is still allowed only if the ships are not travelling between Iranian ports. The blockade has increased oil prices climbing to over USD100/bbl, while stocks fell. The measure comes after failed talks over a peace agreement between both countries, with the US Vice President saying that the main disagreement comes from Iran’s refusal to giving up its nuclear program.
The US had previously accused Iran of “economic terrorism” for the block that it has had on the Strait since the beginning of the conflict between both countries (28/02/2026), although Iran has allowed passage of some commercial ships for a toll fee. For its part, Iran has accused the US of “piracy” due to the blockade and has called for the respect of its sovereignty.