APR 13 (V7N) - Trump Orders US Navy Blockade of Strait of Hormuz US President Donald Trump has ordered the US Navy to block any ships attempting to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz, following the collapse of peace talks between American and Iranian delegations in Pakistan. In a statement on social media, Trump declared the US Navy would "interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran," asserting that "no one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas." This move aims to curb Iran's influence over the vital shipping route, which has seen tensions rise since the outbreak of the war.

Iran Revolutionary Guards Warn of "Deadly Vortex" In response to Trump's blockade order, Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed full control over the Strait of Hormuz, issuing a stern warning that enemies would be ensnared in a "deadly vortex" should they make any wrong moves. The Guards stated that military vessels approaching the Strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and would face severe consequences. Despite this, they assured that civilian vessels could still pass through, provided they comply with specific regulations, though the details were not clarified.

US Team Exits Islamabad Talks The entire American negotiating team has left Islamabad following the failed peace talks with Iran, a US official confirmed. The departure effectively ended any prospects for back-channel negotiations or continued dialogue in Pakistan. Meanwhile, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf blamed Washington for its inability to earn the trust of the Iranian delegation, pointing to disagreements over the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran’s demand for the right to enrich uranium.

Lebanese Death Toll Rises Amid Israeli Strikes The health ministry in Lebanon reported at least five deaths from extensive Israeli airstrikes on the country’s southern regions, raising the total death toll in Lebanon to 2,055. Israel has insisted that its military operations targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon are not part of the broader ceasefire agreement. Meanwhile, Iran-backed Hezbollah continues to engage in hostilities with Israel, complicating peace efforts.

Saudi Arabia Protests Iraqi Attacks Saudi Arabia has formally summoned the Iraqi ambassador to lodge a complaint about attacks launched from Iraq into Saudi territory. This follows a similar diplomatic protest from the US. Tensions are rising in the Gulf as various states in the region react to the ongoing conflict and the involvement of Iran-backed forces.

Trump Threatens China Over Iran Military Support US President Donald Trump warned of severe consequences for China if it were to provide military assistance to Iran. Trump threatened a 50% tariff on Chinese imports into the US if Beijing intervenes in the conflict. This escalation could further strain US-China relations as both powers are drawn into the complex geopolitical web surrounding the Middle East war.

Ireland Faces Protests Over Rising Fuel Prices In Ireland, the government convened an emergency meeting to address growing protests over escalating petrol and diesel prices, which have surged due to the war in the Middle East. Public anger over the cost of living has reached new heights as fuel shortages and price hikes affect daily life.

Kuwait Arrests Individuals for Terrorism Financing Kuwaiti authorities arrested 24 individuals, including five former lawmakers, in connection with an investigation into the financing of terrorist groups. This crackdown is part of broader efforts across Gulf states to target individuals and organizations with alleged links to Iran.

Iran Reports Heavy Casualties Iran’s Legal Medicine Organization reported that 3,375 people have been killed in the ongoing war, including 2,875 males and 496 females. The true scale of casualties remains difficult to verify due to reporting restrictions.

Ceasefire Call Amid Growing Tensions Pakistan's Foreign Minister has called for the two-week ceasefire, agreed upon by the US and Iran, to be upheld. Oman's Foreign Minister has also urged an extension of the ceasefire and the initiation of new negotiations. Despite the international calls for de-escalation, the situation remains precarious, especially with the failure of talks and the intensifying military actions.

Putin Offers Mediation Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his readiness to assist in mediating the ongoing peace efforts between the warring parties. Putin's offer comes amid a broader international push to find a resolution, though the failure of recent talks and continued military operations complicate any immediate prospects for peace.

These developments signal a volatile and fluid situation in the Middle East, where diplomatic efforts face significant hurdles and the risk of further escalation remains high.

END/WD/RH/