US and Israel Discuss Land Blockade on Iran to Intensify Economic Pressure

The United States and Israel are reportedly considering imposing a land blockade on Iran as part of efforts to increase economic pressure on the Iranian regime. This option was discussed during a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday. The blockade would aim to restrict Iran's import and export flows by persuading neighboring countries to tighten or close border crossings.

A senior Israeli official told the British Telegraph that one possibility is a complete closure of Iran's land borders, effectively preventing any goods from entering or leaving the country. Retired US Lieutenant General Sean McFarland described such a blockade as "almost impossible" but acknowledged that isolating Iran economically could force it "to its knees," though he emphasized that military components would also be necessary. Iran shares land borders with several countries including Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, making cooperation from multiple states essential.

The blockade might focus on key border crossings such as the one between Iran and Turkmenistan. However, some neighboring countries are not US or Israeli allies, complicating efforts. Washington may view Pakistan and Iraq as vulnerable points but warns that cooperating states could face economic repercussions and retaliatory threats from Iran. Blocking major ports or border crossings could also hinder Iran's ability to rearm, as Tehran expects shipments of rocket launchers and air defense systems from China under a $70 million military cooperation deal.

Sources indicate that Trump believes the current strategy, including efforts to open the Strait of Hormuz, has been exhausted and is exploring new escalation options to bring Iran back to negotiations. The land blockade would complement the existing maritime blockade under the "maximum pressure" campaign. Some analysts suggest the blockade plan might be a deliberate diversion to mislead Iran about US and Israeli next moves.

Intelligence assessments reveal divisions within Iran's leadership between those fearing economic collapse and others advocating continued confrontation. Severe fuel shortages and long queues at gas stations have been reported in Iran. The Trump-Netanyahu meeting was described as positive and friendly, with discussions covering three paths: reaching an agreement, continuing the maritime blockade, or renewing attacks. Netanyahu did not favor any option over the others. An Israeli official stated, "We are defending not only our lives but yours, fighting a civilizational war against barbarism."

Additionally, the US conducted a heavy wave of strikes against Iran on Wednesday night in response to Iranian attacks on US bases in Jordan. The resumption of hostilities followed a surprise Iranian strike on American bases in Jordan on Tuesday night. A White House source said, "The supreme commander has all options available."