Caine warns "we will use force" if Iran does not comply with blockade on Strait of Hormuz

Key Points:

• U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine warned that U.S. forces are ready to use force against any ships that violate the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which remains enforced despite a two-week ceasefire in the Iran war.
• The blockade applies to all vessels heading to or from Iranian ports, and so far, 13 ships have turned around without incident; no ship boardings have been necessary yet, according to CENTCOM.
• The U.S. military stands prepared to escalate from the blockade to major combat operations rapidly if needed, with President Trump emphasizing the goal to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons either through diplomacy or military action.
• Negotiations between Iran and the U.S. have yet to produce a deal, with talks ongoing and potential new rounds anticipated; meanwhile, tensions persist as Israel continues strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon, which Iran claims violates the ceasefire.
• Despite the fragile ceasefire, both U.S. and Israeli officials remain ready to resume fighting if necessary, while President Trump expresses optimism that the conflict is nearing an end, and diplomatic efforts continue including recent talks between Israel and Lebanon.