, April 29 -- Donald Trump has directed his administration to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran, aiming to intensify economic pressure while ceasefire conditions remain in place and diplomatic talks stay stalled, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday, citing U.S. officials.

According to the report, Trump made the decision in recent White House meetings with senior security officials, choosing to continue restricting Iranian oil exports and shipping to and from Iranian ports.

Officials said the strategy is designed to squeeze Iran's economy and force concessions over its nuclear programme, particularly demands that Tehran suspend uranium enrichment for up to 20 years.

The report said Trump views the blockade as a "high-risk ...