US-Israeli Attacks in Iran: Vice President Pence Accuses Tehran of ‘Economic Terrorism’ in the Strait of Hormuz

Blockades imposed by the US on Iran’s ports have officially commenced. President Donald Trump announced that the blockade would begin at 10:00 AM Eastern Time (14:00 GMT) on Monday. Amid these developments, US Vice President James Defantis Pence accused the Iranian government of engaging in “economic terrorism” by disrupting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

In a television interview, Pence stated that the Iranians are “involved in acts of economic terrorism,” and the US will adopt a policy of “not allowing any Iranian vessels to go out.” Pence also addressed weekly talks, commenting, “The ball is in Iran’s court.” Earlier, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament affirmed Tehran’s stance of “not bowing to threats.” As for President Trump’s recent statements, there has been no official Iranian response.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued a warning that vessels in the area might face “military presence” and “inspection procedures.” Meanwhile, the New York Times cited senior Iranian officials reporting that Iran had proposed to suspend nuclear activities for five years, which the US rejected, insisting on a 20-year ban instead.

The report also noted that talks between the US and Iran took place in Pakistan, but no agreement was reached. Requests for comments from the White House are pending. Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain the central point of contention. President Trump has consistently stated that the US will ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on both the US and Iran to resume negotiations, emphasizing, “There is no military solution to this war; that is clear.”