Trump Claims 158 Iranian Ships Destroyed as US Enforces Naval Blockade in Gulf Region

Trump Claims 158 Iranian Ships Destroyed as US Enforces Naval Blockade in Gulf Region

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran’s naval forces have been “completely obliterated,” alleging that 158 Iranian naval vessels have been destroyed, while issuing a fresh warning that any remaining ships approaching the U.S.-enforced blockade will be “immediately eliminated.”

Trump made the remarks in a post on Truth Social, where he stated that Iran’s navy had been “laid at the bottom of the sea,” adding that only a small number of fast-attack boats remain operational. He warned that any such vessels nearing the blockade zone would face an “immediate” and decisive military response.

The statement comes as the United States begins full enforcement of a naval blockade on Iran, confirmed by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), covering key maritime zones including the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and approaches to the Strait of Hormuz.

According to CENTCOM, the operation—activated at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time—is aimed at restricting all maritime traffic in and out of Iranian ports and coastal waters. Officials said the move is part of a broader strategy to increase pressure on Tehran over its nuclear programme and regional activities.

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The U.S. military further stated that the blockade applies to all vessels attempting to access Iranian ports regardless of nationality, while allowing monitored passage through international shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic oil routes.

The escalation reportedly follows the collapse of weekend diplomatic negotiations held in Pakistan, where U.S. and Iranian representatives failed to reach a de-escalation agreement.

Trump’s latest comments combined updated claims of Iranian naval losses with a renewed warning that any surviving fast-attack craft would be “immediately eliminated” if they challenge U.S. forces enforcing the blockade.

Global oil markets reacted sharply to the developments, with reports indicating that crude prices surged above $100 per barrel amid fears of disruption to global energy supplies passing through the Middle East.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of global oil trade flows, remains the central flashpoint in the crisis, with analysts warning that any sustained disruption could trigger a wider global energy shock.

Iran has not yet issued an official response to the blockade or Trump’s latest claims. However, Iranian authorities have previously warned that any attempt to restrict its maritime access would be considered a violation of sovereignty and could provoke retaliation.

International observers have expressed concern over the rapid escalation, warning that heightened naval deployments by both sides could increase the risk of direct confrontation in the Gulf region.

Military activity in the area remains ongoing, and officials say the situation is still evolving with further developments expected.

Trump Claims 158 Iranian Ships Destroyed as US Enforces Naval Blockade in Gulf Region