US preparing to board Iran-linked vessels in international waters, seize ships in coming days: report

The article reports that Tehran has rejected a transfer of uranium to the United States, with the statement 'Will never be handed...' as part of coverage around the nuclear deal.

White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said President Trump is optimistic that the naval blockade, combined with measures under Economic Fury, will help facilitate a peace deal.

Negotiations held in Pakistan recently failed, with reports suggesting the impasse was linked to Iran and the United States' disagreements over the demand for the suspension of Tehran's nuclear program.

Iran reportedly announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, saying the country cannot 'blackmail us' and that a tough stand was being taken.

The WSJ, citing unnamed US officials, reported that the US plans to board and seize vessels linked to Iran in international waters in coming days. The move would expand the blockade beyond the Middle East and pressure Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. The campaign is described as 'Economic Fury,' aiming to take control of Iran-linked vessels around the world, including outside the Persian Gulf.

General Dan Cane, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, indicated that the US had not yet boarded any ships. He said the blockade would be enforced inside Iran’s territorial seas and in international waters, and that US-led forces in the Pacific would actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any vessel providing material support to Iran.