The Daily Trump’s Risky Strategy to Blockade Iran’s Blockade
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Apr 15, 2026 
Eric Schmitt, a New York Times national security reporter, joins Rebecca F. Elliott, an energy markets reporter, and David E. Sanger, a veteran foreign policy correspondent. They dig into why Trump chose a blockade. They explore military escalation, shipping fears, and oil market turmoil. They also examine whether pressure in the Strait of Hormuz is actually working.
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Why Trump Chose A Naval Blockade Now
- The blockade began after Iran effectively seized leverage over the Strait of Hormuz by halting traffic and imposing huge tolls.
- David E. Sanger says Iran charged about $2 million per ship, forcing the U.S. Navy to try to reverse who controls passage.
The Blockade Is Military Pressure For Diplomacy
- The blockade is both a coercive military move and a negotiating tool aimed at forcing Iran to yield on the strait and nuclear issues.
- Eric Schmitt calls blockade an act of war, while David E. Sanger says the real goal is to make Iran move in talks.
Three Major Risks Could Outlast The War
- The biggest risks are escalation with Iran, confrontation with China, and lasting damage to Gulf energy infrastructure.
- Rebecca F. Elliott says more than 80 regional energy sites are already damaged and recovery to prewar output could take two years.