Adedokun Waliyu 
US President Donald Trump has said that the American naval blockade against Iran could continue for months, a statement that contributed to a sharp rise in global oil prices.
Trump is expected to receive a briefing on possible new military options against Iran from Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of United States Central Command.
Diplomatic efforts between Iran and the United States remain stalled. During a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Putin reportedly warned that any renewed war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran could have serious consequences.
Speaking to oil industry executives, Trump argued that the naval blockade was proving more effective than direct military strikes. According to US military officials, dozens of commercial vessels attempting to reach Iran have been redirected, preventing the country from exporting millions of barrels of oil worth billions of dollars.
Trump stated that the blockade was putting severe economic pressure on Iran and suggested that conditions could become even more difficult for Tehran if the situation continues.
Oil Prices Surge
The uncertainty surrounding the conflict pushed oil prices to their highest levels in more than four years. Brent crude oil rose sharply before later easing, while West Texas Intermediate crude also recorded significant gains.
Iran has attempted to use its influence over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes, as leverage in negotiations.
Growing International Tensions
Trump also criticised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and threatened to reduce US troop numbers in Germany after Berlin declined to support military action against Iran or contribute to security operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
Senior US officials have reportedly struggled to determine who is directing Iran’s negotiating position, as the country’s political and military leadership continues to evolve following recent attacks that killed several senior figures.
Economic Concerns
The United Nations Development Programme warned that the ongoing conflict could push more than 30 million people into poverty across 160 countries. Rising energy and fertilizer prices are expected to have widespread effects on economies and food security.
Meanwhile, Iran’s currency, the rial, has fallen to record lows against the US dollar. Some Iranians have expressed frustration with repeated negotiations, arguing that previous talks have failed to improve economic conditions or address broader concerns such as freedom and living standards.
Iran Rejects Pressure
Iran has proposed easing restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz if the United States lifts its naval blockade and engages in broader negotiations. However, Washington remains sceptical of the proposal.
Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the United States of trying to create internal divisions and weaken Iran through economic pressure.
Lebanon Front Remains Unstable
Violence has continued in Lebanon despite an extended ceasefire between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah.
The Lebanese army reported that Israeli strikes recently wounded and killed several soldiers. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said lasting security can only be achieved through negotiations and full implementation of the ceasefire.
A United Nations-backed report also warned that more than 1.2 million people in Lebanon could face acute hunger as a result of the continuing conflict and its economic impact.
