US Iran blockade: Washington says it is squeezing Iran’s economy while warning against nukes—Will Tehran accept deal terms?

The United States has intensified its approach toward Iran by combining economic pressure with diplomatic messaging. Stephen Miller, serving as White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor, stated that the naval blockade imposed by the US in the Persian Gulf is significantly affecting Iran’s economy. He described the measure as “squeezing the economic life” out of the country.

In an interview with Fox News, Miller reiterated that Donald Trump remains focused on achieving peace while maintaining a firm stance against Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. He stated clearly that the US position allows no compromise on preventing Tehran from developing nuclear capabilities.

Miller referred to recent US military action carried out under the name Operation Epic Fury. He said Iran experienced a significant military setback after declining an earlier opportunity to negotiate. Following a two-week ceasefire, Washington again pushed for an agreement, but described Iran’s terms as unsatisfactory.

According to Miller, this led to a change in US strategy. He said that after rejecting Iran’s conditions, the administration moved forward with implementing a naval blockade targeting Iranian ports. The measure restricts vessels from entering or leaving the country’s ports.

He also emphasized Trump’s role in the process, stating that the US President is directly involved in negotiations in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief. Miller described Trump as someone who follows through on decisions and maintains a consistent approach.

The operational aspect of the blockade has been overseen by United States Central Command (CENTCOM). The command announced that the blockade has been successfully implemented, with US forces establishing control across key waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper stated that within 36 hours of the operation’s launch, maritime trade to and from Iran had been effectively halted. This indicates the scale and speed of enforcement.

In a separate development, the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) intercepted an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel attempting to bypass restrictions. The ship was redirected back toward Iran after it tried to evade the blockade following departure from Bandar Abbas and transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM reported that ten vessels have been turned back since the blockade began, and no ships have successfully crossed through the restrictions.

Miller reiterated that the US position remains unchanged regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He stated that the US will not allow Iran to become a nuclear-armed state under any circumstances. He added that while Washington is seeking peace and stability, it will not accept threats related to nuclear capabilities.

He also said that the US believes it holds a strong negotiating position, stating that Iran does not have comparable leverage. The ongoing embargo, according to Miller, is designed to increase pressure on Tehran and influence its decisions regarding future negotiations.

US pressure on Iran intensifies through blockade enforcement and diplomacy, as Washington maintains its stance against nuclear development and seeks negotiations.