Tensions between the United States and Iran have intensified after peace talks held in Islamabad, Pakistan, ended without an agreement, raising fears of further escalation in the Middle East.
Following the failed negotiations, the United States announced plans to block Iranian ports and restrict maritime traffic linked to the country. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, said the measures to prevent ships from entering or leaving Iran would begin at 20:00 GMT, corresponding to 22:00 in Kigali.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Washington would also stop any ship attempting to pass through international waters if it is found to have paid Iran to use the Strait of Hormuz.
“No one who has paid Iran illegal fees will be allowed to pass through international waters,” Trump wrote on social media.
Iran responded with strong warnings of its own, saying any vessel approaching its territorial waters or attempting to interfere with its maritime routes would face serious consequences.
The sharp exchange of threats quickly affected global oil markets, with crude oil prices climbing above $100 per barrel amid fears that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could affect global energy supplies.
The rising tensions come shortly after U.S. and Iranian officials held 21 hours of negotiations in Islamabad aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The American delegation was led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, while Iran was represented by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
However, the talks failed to produce a breakthrough as both sides remained divided on key demands. Washington insisted that Iran halt its nuclear weapons ambitions and allow strict monitoring of maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
Tehran, on the other hand, demanded that the United States release frozen Iranian assets, lift economic sanctions, and pressure Israel to stop military operations in Lebanon.
With neither side willing to compromise on these issues, the negotiations ended without an agreement, leaving the region on edge and increasing concerns about the potential for a wider confrontation.