Iran blockade ‘going global’ is a warning signal to China and Russia
The United States has intensified a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, seizing or turning back 39 vessels since April 13, 2026, as part of a broader strategy to pressure Iran economically. U.S. officials describe the operation as 'unbelievably effective' and claim it is expanding globally, targeting Iranian oil shipments. This escalation is seen as a strategic warning to China and Russia, both of which rely heavily on seaborne energy imports and have supported Iran.
- ▪U.S. Marines have boarded or seized 39 vessels since April 13, 2026, as part of a naval blockade targeting Iranian oil shipments.
- ▪President Donald Trump praised the blockade as 'unbelievably effective,' emphasizing its economic and military impact.
- ▪China imports 70% of its oil, with 90% transported by sea, including significant volumes from Iran and Russia via shadow fleet tankers.
- ▪The U.S. operation involves advanced surveillance, joint military coordination, and financial tracking capabilities that challenge Chinese and Russian maritime strategies.
- ▪Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated the blockade is 'going global,' signaling expanded interdiction efforts beyond the Middle East.
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Opinion Iran blockade ‘going global’ is a warning signal to China and Russia Trump calls the blockade 'unbelievably effective' as Marines fast-rope onto ships and seize Iranian oil tankers By Rebecca Grant Fox News Published May 4, 2026 5:00am EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video US oil exports hit record high amid blockade in Strait of Hormuz Lucas Tomlinson reports on the new threats from Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei amid the U.S. naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Gen. Charles Wald (Ret.) weighs in on the threats and potential Russian support to Iran. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! On Tuesday, U.S.
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