The United States and Iran have failed to reach an agreement to end the war, with Vice President JD Vance stating that Iran has chosen not to accept US terms.
The marathon negotiations between leaders in Islamabad, Pakistan, have ended without a deal, leading to a significant escalation of tensions.
The collapse of talks has prompted President Donald Trump to announce a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipping.
Trump warned that the US Navy will begin blockading any ships trying to enter or leave the strait, effective immediately.
The decision comes after Iran refused to abandon its nuclear ambitions, which the US sees as a major sticking point.
Trump emphasized that the US will not allow Iran to profit from the closure of the strait, calling it “world extortion”.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital shipping lane, with approximately 20% of the world’s oil passing through it. Iran’s effective closure of the waterway has already disrupted global oil supplies and pushed up energy prices.
The US and Iran had been engaged in intense negotiations, with the US pushing for Iran to give up its nuclear program. However, Iran has maintained that its nuclear ambitions are non-negotiable.
The collapse of talks has raised concerns about further escalation in the region.
The US has warned that it is ready to “finish up” Iran if necessary, while Iran has threatened to retaliate against any US aggression.
The international community is urging restraint and diplomacy, with Pakistan offering to facilitate further talks between the US and Iran.
