WASHINGTON, DC: US President Donald Trump has restored the naval blockade that was lifted after the ceasefire agreement came into effect. The move came after Trump announced that the United States would take control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump said the US would act as a "guardian" protecting international shipping and demanded that other countries pay for the security provided. He made the remarks during an interview with Fox News.
Meanwhile, Iran warned that it would strongly respond if the US military attempts to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without Tehran's approval. Iran also said that any move by Gulf countries cooperating with the US would be considered an act of war against it.
Iran had earlier closed the Strait of Hormuz following attacks carried out by the US and Israel. The closure led to a rise in global oil prices and concerns over energy shortages in several countries. Iran announced that the waterway was closed again after the US resumed attacks following the ceasefire. Trump's statement comes amid this ongoing situation.