April 12, 2026 — Trump Announces Hormuz Blockade.
Naval Blockade of Hormuz
President Donald Trump announced on April 12 that the U.S. Navy would immediately begin a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following the collapse of peace talks in Islamabad. Trump also ordered the interdiction of all vessels in international waters that had paid transit tolls to Iran during the conflict.
The announcement dramatically escalates the maritime standoff in the world's most critical oil transit chokepoint. Approximately 21 million barrels per day — 21% of global petroleum consumption — normally transit the strait. The move is expected to send crude oil prices surging when markets reopen Monday, potentially pushing WTI well above $100 per barrel.