Trump says Iran ‘can’t blackmail us’ as firing in Hormuz disrupts tankers; US readies ship seizures

Trump also reiterated that the US naval blockade targeting Iran would continue the blockade “will remain in full force” until Tehran agrees to a deal with Washington, including on its nuclear programme.

Dismissing Iran’s proposal to impose tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, he said, “Nope. No way. No. Nope… No, they’re not going to be tolls.”

Iran reverses course, fires on tanker in Hormuz

Iran abruptly reversed its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, announcing that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state … under strict management and control of the armed forces”.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), two gunboats from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard opened fire on a tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The tanker and its crew were reported safe, though the vessel was not identified.

Shipping disruption quickly followed:

• TankerTrackers.com said vessels were forced to turn around, including an Indian-flagged supertanker carrying 2 million barrels of oil.
• The US military said 23 ships have been turned back since the blockade began.
• Iran signalled that transit would now be tightly controlled, including permits, tolls and designated routes.

The Strait of Hormuz handles around 20% of global oil shipments, making it one of the most sensitive chokepoints in global trade.

US preparing to board and seize Iran-linked ships worldwide

A report by The Wall Street Journal reveals that the US is preparing a significant escalation at sea. According to US officials cited by the publication, the military is planning to board and seize Iran-linked oil tankers and commercial ships in international waters and
operations could extend beyond the Middle East, targeting vessels globally. It added that the move is part of a broader strategy dubbed “Economic Fury”.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said, “The US will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran.”

He added the campaign would include “dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil,” referring to ships evading sanctions and regulations.

The report further said the US has already turned back 23 ships near Iranian waters, while Washington is expanding sanctions targeting Iran’s oil trade networks.

Saturday’s escalation underlines rapidly shifting and often contradictory signals:

• Iran had announced on Friday that the strait was open.
• Within hours, it reimposed restrictions and opened fire on a vessel.
• The US is simultaneously tightening its blockade and expanding enforcement globally.
• Yet both sides continue to signal ongoing negotiations.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said it would maintain control over Hormuz until, “the war fully ends and lasting peace is achieved in the region”.

It also warned that the strait would not fully reopen unless the US lifts its naval blockade.

India among those impacted

India has already been drawn into the fallout as two Indian-flagged vessels were forced to reverse course after gunfire following which New Delhi summoned Iran’s ambassador, expressing “deep concern”.

Talks continue, but deadline looms

Despite the escalation, diplomatic efforts are ongoing. Pakistan is mediating talks between the US and Iran even as a ceasefire is set to expire on April 22.