The United States military has announced it will begin a naval blockade of all Iranian ports starting Monday, following the collapse of high-level talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The decision comes after negotiations in Islamabad failed to produce a breakthrough, with Washington blaming Tehran’s refusal to curb its nuclear program.

According to US Central Command, the blockade will apply to all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, including those along the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. The operation will be enforced impartially on vessels of all nations, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.

However, US officials clarified that ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz to non-Iranian destinations will not be targeted, suggesting a more limited scope than earlier statements by President Donald Trump.

The move has raised concerns about the stability of the recently agreed two-week ceasefire, with Iran warning that increased military presence near the strategic waterway could be viewed as a violation.

The blockade underscores rising tensions in the region and could have major implications for global trade and oil markets, as the Gulf remains a critical route for energy supplies.