The United States has signaled that its naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain in place indefinitely, underscoring a fragile pause in hostilities while raising the prospect of renewed military escalation.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Thursday that Washington is prepared to sustain the blockade “as long as it takes,” even as diplomatic efforts continue following stalled talks in Pakistan earlier this week.
Hegseth described the blockade, which began Monday in the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf, as both effective and sustainable, noting that the U.S. military remains prepared for further action against Iran’s energy infrastructure.
He warned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to intensified measures, stating that Iran risks facing “bombs dropping on infrastructure, power and energy.”
U.S. officials said the military is closely monitoring Iranian movements during the pause in fighting, which is expected to last through early next week.
General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said 13 ships had already turned back from Iranian ports following U.S. warnings.
He added, “If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force.”
Officials also emphasized that the United States is using the current lull to reinforce and reposition forces in the region, while maintaining operational readiness.
Despite the military posture, U.S. officials have reiterated a preference for a negotiated resolution.
A Pakistani delegation arrived in Tehran on Wednesday to coordinate a new round of talks, and the White House said it remains engaged in ongoing discussions.
However, distrust continues to complicate progress, particularly after earlier U.S. strikes during negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.
Iranian officials have warned that the blockade could undermine the current pause in fighting, while broader negotiations remain entangled with issues including a ceasefire in Lebanon and control over the Strait of Hormuz.
Conflicting signals from both sides have contributed to uncertainty, as diplomatic optimism appears tempered by lingering skepticism.