The US tightened pressure on Iran with a Strait of Hormuz blockade, disrupting oil trade and worsening Iran’s economic crisis, while internal political divisions grow and tensions with Washington escalate.
US warns Iran as Strait of Hormuz blockade tightens pressure as tensions escalated following a sharply worded statement by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Friday, in which he criticized Iran’s leadership and outlined the United States’ strategic position in the ongoing standoff. In a public post, Bessent asserted that the United States maintains full control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy transit route, and emphasized that a naval blockade would remain in effect until freedom of navigation conditions are restored to levels seen before February 27.
The remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the United States, with Bessent also pointing to economic strain within Iran, including a shortage of U.S. dollars and the implementation of food and gasoline rationing. He further stated that international sentiment has increasingly turned against Tehran, underscoring Washington’s broader diplomatic stance.
The blockade represents a significant shift in pressure tactics. For years, Iran had managed to navigate sanctions by exporting oil through informal channels, particularly to China, using a network of so-called shadow vessels. However, U.S. naval operations have disrupted these routes, preventing tankers from bypassing enforcement measures and, in some cases, pursuing them beyond the Persian Gulf into the Indian Ocean.
The situation escalated after Iran targeted commercial vessels and restricted maritime traffic through the Hormuz corridor, a move that disrupted global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. In response, the United States deployed naval forces to secure the passage, effectively limiting Iran’s ability to continue its covert export operations.
Internally, the crisis has exposed divisions within Iran’s leadership. President Masoud Pezeshkian is reportedly aligned with moderate factions seeking negotiations, while hardline figures such as Saeed Jalili advocate a more confrontational approach. The divergence reflects broader concerns about the sustainability of the conflict, particularly as economic conditions deteriorate.
President Donald Trump has indicated support for maintaining the blockade, describing it as highly effective and signaling preparedness for a prolonged standoff. According to statements made to reporters, the administration is considering extending the measure until Iran meets specific nuclear-related demands.
The economic impact on Iran has been severe. Reports indicate that unemployment has surged, food prices have risen sharply, and widespread internet disruptions have affected digital commerce. The national currency has weakened significantly over the past year, with the exchange rate reaching approximately 1.81 million rials per U.S. dollar, intensifying concerns about potential economic collapse.
