‘Prepare for extended blockade’: Trump tells aides to target Iran’s economy

Washington: US president Donald Trump has asked his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran, according to reports citing US officials reported by The Wall Street Journal.

The move is aimed at weakening Tehran’s economy and forcing concessions on its nuclear programme. Officials said the decision reflects a strategic choice to avoid more direct military action while maintaining pressure through restrictions on trade and oil exports.

Donald Trump has reportedly chosen to intensify economic pressure on Iran by continuing and expanding a naval blockade targeting the country’s trade routes and oil shipments.

The plan focuses on restricting shipping to and from Iranian ports, with the aim of cutting off key revenue sources for the government.

Decision made after high-level discussions

The strategy was discussed in recent high-level meetings, including a session in the White House Situation Room. Officials familiar with the discussions said the blockade was seen as the most viable option among limited choices.

The administration is said to be prioritising a sustained pressure approach rather than seeking immediate, short-term outcomes.

Why the US chose blockade over other options

According to officials, the US considered two main alternatives:

Resuming military strikes and withdrawing from the conflict.

However, both options were viewed as carrying greater risks. Continuing the blockade was seen as a middle-ground strategy that maintains pressure without immediate escalation.

The blockade is designed to hit Iran’s economic lifelines, particularly its oil exports, which are a major source of revenue.

By restricting maritime trade, the US aims to weaken Iran’s financial capacity and push it towards concessions on its nuclear ambitions.

High-risk strategy with uncertain outcome

Officials described the move as a high-risk effort to force a “nuclear capitulation” that Iran has long resisted.

While the blockade increases pressure, it does not guarantee a quick resolution, and tensions between the two countries are expected to remain high.

Reports suggest that Donald Trump prefers decisive outcomes, but current options do not offer a swift resolution.

The extended blockade signals a longer-term strategy, indicating that the standoff between the US and Iran may continue without immediate de-escalation.