How a US blockade near the Strait of Hormuz could work and the impact ahead for the global economy [View all]

A blockade of Iranian ports that President Donald Trump said began Monday could further disrupt oil prices, has spurred questions about international law and leaves doubts about whether the pressure tactic will force Tehran to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz.

Trump threatened to impose the blockade after talks to further a fragile ceasefire ended without a deal this past weekend. Iran had previously halted nearly all tanker traffic through the key waterway, allowing only some ships perceived as friendly to pass while charging considerable fees.

Enforcing the blockade is likely to demand significant resources from the U.S. Navy and could prompt concerns about military force and international law, experts say. Supply chain analysts, meanwhile, stress that the restrictions could undermine the flow of oil, fertilizer, food and other goods to consumers already facing higher prices.

How the US could enforce a blockade of Iranian ports

Successfully enforcing the blockade will require a sustained commitment of U.S. Navy ships and personnel, as well as clear guidance from the Trump administration and the Navy’s legal department, experts say.

https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-strait-of-hormuz-blockade-trump-bf6a057faebfc11eb0c76510a4fc20b1

Clear guidance from Trump? We're doomed.