The United States has signaled its intention to maintain a naval blockade of Iranian ports, aiming to cut off Tehran's oil exports and compel the country to return to negotiations. President Donald Trump asserted that Iran is experiencing a 'state of collapse,' with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicating that the 'maximum pressure campaign' has led to increased inflation and a depletion of oil storage in Iran. The Iranian rial has recently weakened, reflecting economic strain. The blockade has been a central issue in US-Iran relations, with Iran refusing to negotiate as long as the naval restrictions remain. Oil prices have surged, with Brent crude futures rising by approximately 5% to nearly $117 per barrel. Estimates suggest that Iran has only 12 to 22 days of oil storage left before it may need to cut production, which could cause permanent damage to its wells. Trump has instructed aides to prepare for an extended blockade, viewing it as a safer alternative than resuming hostilities without a deal to limit Iran's nuclear activities.