US vows deeper sanctions, indefinite Hormuz blockade as tanker attacks rise

The United States has pledged to keep a naval blockade on Iranian ports going indefinitely, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stating that ships can rotate in and out to sustain the effort. This comes amid stalled ceasefire talks and fresh reports of severe problems aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, where sailors have reportedly attempted to jump overboard amid deteriorating conditions.

Hegseth made the remarks during a trip to the region, insisting the Navy has the capacity to enforce the measures without end. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added that new steps for Iran's economic isolation are coming next week, describing them as measures never seen before. President Trump has claimed full control over the Strait of Hormuz, yet only a handful of vessels passed through this week according to tracking data.

Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority pushed back, saying the strait remains closed and will stay that way until its conditions are met. The group dismissed American assertions as empty claims that do not match reality on the water.

Conditions on the Abraham Lincoln have drawn attention from lawmakers this week. Accounts describe cramped quarters, supply shortages, and mental strain on the crew after months at sea enforcing the blockade. These details raise questions about how long such deployments can continue without broader effects on readiness.

Separately, two tankers operated by Abu Dhabi's state oil company came under drone attack while transiting the strait. The United Arab Emirates blamed Iran and called the strikes acts of piracy that violate freedom of navigation. No injuries occurred, but the incidents underscore ongoing risks for commercial traffic. Iran has not commented on the attacks.

Nine vessels moved through the narrow waterway on Thursday, an increase from five the day before but still far below pre-war averages. Some ships appear to be crossing with transponders off, yet the overall flow remains a fraction of normal levels. Iran maintains it holds decisive control over the passage.

The blockade and sanctions have limited Iran's oil exports and added pressure on its economy. Iranian officials have noted internal strains, including difficulties paying troops and widening public discontent. At the same time, the US effort carries its own costs in ship maintenance, crew welfare, and extended commitments far from home.

Vice President JD Vance has said keeping oil and gas prices low for Americans ranks as the top priority, alongside preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The current standoff leaves both sides in a position of prolonged pressure without clear resolution.

Lawmakers in Washington have begun to flag the human toll on deployed forces. The combination of an open-ended mission and reports from the Abraham Lincoln suggests the blockade's sustainability will depend on more than official statements about rotation schedules.