Where things stand
• Blockade in the strait: President Donald Trump said the US Navy will start blocking passage through the strait of Hormuz, risking an even greater spike to oil and gas prices as he seeks to maximize leverage over Iran. The US and other countries will sweep for mines in the vital waterway during the blockade, Trump said.
• Talks stall: The US president predicted Iran will return to peace talks, after negotiators failed to reach a long-term deal failed to reach a long-term deal in marathon meetings this weekend. Sources say the countries are deadlocked over Iran’s nuclear stockpile and control of the strait.
• Renewed threats: Trump repeated his vow to take further military action in the absence of a deal, claiming he “could take out Iran in one day” and listing desalination plants and bridges among potential targets.
Source: CNN
