World news updates: US says it can keep naval blockade on Iran ‘indefinitely,’ vows more economic pressure
Vessels anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran. (Photo: AP)
Iran is facing growing pressure from Washington and its Gulf neighbours as ceasefire talks stall and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz escalate, Reuters reported.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US Navy could sustain its blockade of Iran indefinitely by rotating ships through the region. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said fresh economic measures against Tehran would be announced within days, describing them as unprecedented.
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UAE Condemns Tanker Attacks: The UAE accused Iran of striking two ADNOC oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it “piracy” by the Revolutionary Guard Corps and a breach of UN rules protecting free navigation. No injuries were reported, and the UAE urged Iran to halt the attacks and honour the ceasefire.
Hegseth Disputes Warship Reports: Hegseth also pushed back on reports of worsening conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, calling them misrepresented, though he did not directly address claims of supply shortages or crew welfare concerns during its deployment since November.
Oil supply is expected to fall 4% this year, the International Energy Agency said, as the standoff continues.
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