New Delhi, April 12 -- US President Donald Trump has ordered a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran after talks failed to resolve disputes over Tehran's nuclear ambitions.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said: "Effective immediately, the United States Navy. will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz." He added that the move aims to counter what he described as "world extortion" by Iran.

Reiterating his long-standing position, Trump said: "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!"

The US President coupled the blockade announcement with strong military warnings. "Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!" he said,...