Washington: The confrontation between the United States and Iran is entering a more uncertain phase, with Washington warning that its naval blockade around Iran could continue for an extended period while diplomatic efforts remain stalled.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the American Navy has the capacity to sustain the operation indefinitely by rotating ships deployed in the region, signalling that the US is prepared for a prolonged standoff.
The comments come as the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation, with both sides issuing sharply conflicting claims over control of the crucial shipping route.
Iran rejects US claim over Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that Washington has established control over the strategic waterway. Tehran, however, has rejected the assertion.
Iranian military spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari dismissed the US claim, describing it as misinformation and insisting that Iran continues to control the strait.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also accused Washington of relying on what he called inaccurate intelligence. He warned that decisions based on such information could further escalate the situation.
UAE reports attacks on two oil tankers
Tensions rose further after the United Arab Emirates accused Iran of attacking two vessels operated by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company while they were travelling through the Strait of Hormuz.
The allegations add another layer of concern for international shipping, as the waterway is one of the world’s most important routes for global energy supplies.
Any prolonged disruption could have consequences far beyond the region, particularly for oil-importing countries that depend on shipments passing through the Gulf.
Washington threatens tougher economic measures
The US administration is also preparing additional economic pressure on Tehran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned of an unprecedented level of economic isolation for Iran, with further measures expected to be announced shortly.
Washington has linked its economic strategy to the continuing situation in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran has continued to reject US demands and accusations.
Oil markets remain under pressure
The confrontation is also creating fresh uncertainty in global energy markets. Concerns over shipping disruptions through Hormuz, combined with changing expectations around global demand, have contributed to volatility in crude prices.
Brent crude was reported to have settled at $87.07 a barrel, highlighting the market’s sensitivity to developments surrounding the conflict.
Diplomatic deadlock adds to uncertainty
With ceasefire negotiations showing little progress, the possibility of a prolonged confrontation is increasingly becoming a concern for governments and markets.
Washington’s warning that the naval blockade could be maintained indefinitely, coupled with Tehran’s refusal to accept US claims over Hormuz, suggests that the dispute is far from a quick resolution.
For now, the Strait of Hormuz remains the key flashpoint, with developments there likely to determine not only the next phase of the Iran-US confrontation but also its wider economic impact.
