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Energy Markets · Geopolitical Risk · Iran Blockade · Oil Prices
President Trump initiated a blockade of Iranian ports on April 13, 2026, enforced by over 15 US warships, causing Brent crude oil prices to surge 7% to nearly $102 a barrel as the US aims to halt Iran's oil exports and pressure Tehran into a peace agreement.
The blockade, which commenced at 10 am Eastern, targets Iranian port traffic while allowing other vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by the BBC and Wall Street Journal. This strategic move is designed to choke off Iran's primary revenue stream.
Iran's military spokesman, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, warned that if its ports are threatened, "no port in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman will be safe." President Trump, communicating via Truth Social, explicitly stated that any Iranian ships approaching the blockade would be "immediately ELIMINATED." Notably, European allies, including the UK, are not supporting this new US strategy, as reported by Newser. The ceasefire announced by Trump is set to expire on April 22, with some observers still hoping for a diplomatic resolution before that deadline, despite the heightened tensions.
Trump Blockades Iran Ports; Brent Crude Hits $102(current)