US President Donald Trump has instructed his staff to prepare for a prolonged blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, WION reports. The move is aimed at weakening Iran's economy and forcing Tehran to make concessions on its nuclear program.
The decision is the result of the failure of peace talks and the administration's decision that a prolonged blockade carries less risk than the resumption of full-scale bombing or a complete withdrawal from the conflict.
According to the "Wall Street Journal" the decision was made after a high-level meeting in the White House Situation Room. According to US officials, the central component of the extended blockade is to halt Iran's uranium enrichment for at least 20 years. The blockade is designed to cripple Iran's economy.
The US has considered two competing options - resuming military strikes and withdrawing from the conflict. However, both options are seen as carrying high risks. Extending the blockade is considered a middle option. Trump claims that Iran is in a "state of collapse" and has urged them to show reason. Iran wants an end to the war and the lifting of the blockade, but remains adamant about its nuclear program.
Before the US blockade of Iran, an average of 5 ships a day docked or anchored in the Iranian port of Chah Bahar. Now, more than 20 ships remain in Chah Bahar because of the US blockade.