New Delhi, April 13 -- The U.S. military announced on Sunday that it will begin blockading all Iranian Gulf ports on Monday at 7.30 PM IST, effectively taking control of ships entering and leaving Iran. However, vessels not heading to or from Iran will still be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that carries about one-fifth of the world's oil supply.

"Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz," Trump posted on Truth Social on Sunday. "Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL."

"The blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nation...