Trump extends Iran ceasefire while keeping blockade of Iranian ports in place

What changed in US policy?

Trump said the US would pause attacks by extending the ceasefire, but he did not lift the maritime blockade tied to Iranian ports. That means the military posture shifted away from immediate strikes while economic and shipping pressure continued Main-Spitze,finanzen.at,tagesschau.de.

Why is Kharg Island being mentioned?

Bessent said Kharg Island’s storage could fill within days if the blockade continues, and other reports describe the island as a central hub for Iranian oil exports. That is why US officials are presenting pressure on maritime trade as a way to hit Iran’s main oil revenue stream TRT World,قناة العربية,Hindustan Times.

What additional pressure did the Treasury Department threaten?

Bessent said the US could sanction any individuals or vessels that help facilitate Iran’s oil or financial trade networks, signaling that enforcement may extend beyond the naval blockade itself TRT World,Yeni Şafak,Munsif Daily | Late….