Trump Orders Renewed US Naval Blockade on Iran to Increase Pressure Amid Rising Attacks

US President Donald Trump announced on July 13, 2026, that the US military will reimpose a naval blockade on Iran, marking a significant escalation in tensions and signaling the breakdown of a recent US-Iran understanding signed less than a month ago. The blockade aims to restrict Iranian and Iranian-affiliated vessels from entering or exiting the Strait of Hormuz, while keeping the passage open to other nations. Trump described the move as a more effective and efficient pressure tactic than military airstrikes, citing its success during the "Roaring Lion" operation.

Alongside the naval blockade, the US has intensified military strikes along Iran’s coastline, targeting various facilities daily, including a recent attack on a submarine and ship maintenance site in Bandar Abbas using suicide boats. US officials stated the goal is to gradually degrade Iran’s maritime strike capabilities to weaken the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ leverage over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

US forces continue to escort at least 20 ships daily through southern Hormuz near Oman, coordinating closely with the US Navy. Senior American officials indicated that any future negotiations with Iran would occur under ongoing military pressure, though prospects for successful talks remain slim due to the Revolutionary Guards’ determination to maintain control over the strait.

Trump also announced that the US will act as the "Guardian of the Strait of Hormuz," charging a 20% fee on all cargo passing through to cover security costs. This new mechanism will be implemented immediately. The US Central Command released footage of the recent Bandar Abbas strike, highlighting the use of new tactics such as suicide boats.

This renewed blockade and military escalation reflect a strategic US effort to apply sustained pressure on Iran’s maritime capabilities and regional influence, while maintaining open navigation for global shipping through the vital waterway.