Overview
The United States is escalating pressure on Donald Trump has instructed national‑security officials to prepare a prolonged blockade of Iran’s ports. The aim is to force Tehran to halt its nuclear programme and suspend uranium enrichment for two decades.
Key Developments
- President Trump orders a long‑term blockade to compel Iran to accept a 20‑year suspension of enrichment and strict post‑suspension limits.
- Pete Hegseth, US Defence Secretary, will be questioned by the House Armed Services Committee on April 29, 2026 regarding the administration’s 2027 defence budget.
- The proposed 2027 budget seeks to raise defence outlays to a historic $1.5 trillion, emphasizing more drones, missile‑defence systems and warships, as advocated by Gen. Dan Caine.
- Iran has warned that the US can no longer “dictate” policy to other nations, signalling heightened diplomatic tension.
- Oil markets reacted: prices fell after the UAE’s surprise exit from OPEC, though supply concerns from the Iran standoff kept a floor under prices.
Important Facts
• The blockade is intended to be “long” but no spec