Trump Consideres Extending Iran Blockade Amid Low Approval and Rising Prices

(SeaPRwire) –   The US president considers this approach a better alternative to engaging in combat or withdrawing, even amidst rising fuel costs, as reported by the WSJ

Citing sources, the Wall Street Journal reports that US President Donald Trump has directed the creation of a strategy to extend the blockade on Iranian ports. The goal is to coerce Tehran into accepting a more advantageous peace agreement, even as his public approval ratings dip to record lows.

Anonymous officials informed the publication that Trump has instructed his staff to get ready for a prolonged blockade. He views this course of action as hazardous, yet still a better choice than resuming airstrikes or completely withdrawing from the confrontation.

The publication characterized the policy as “a high-risk bid to compel a nuclear capitulation” from Iran, a nation that has consistently refused US calls to destroy its nuclear infrastructure and surrender its reserves of enriched uranium.

This report follows claims by Axios and other media outlets that Iran presented a three-part plan to resolve the conflict. The proposal involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing nuclear discussions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, dismissed the offer, emphasizing that resolving the nuclear issue is essential to any agreement.

The WSJ indicates that Trump interprets Tehran’s gesture as evidence that it is not bargaining sincerely. The journal also noted that the proposal would permit Iran to dictate the terms of an exit strategy. Furthermore, a senior American official stated to the outlet that the blockade is “demonstrably crushing Iran’s economy,” noting that the increasing pressure is what prompted Iran’s recent proposal.

Nevertheless, Trump’s stance on Iran has divided his supporters. While hardliners are reportedly pushing for increased pressure, business leaders are warning of economic consequences resulting from the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and soaring energy costs. These factors could signal the “death knell” for Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Monday indicates that Trump’s approval rating has dropped to 34%, a decline from 36% earlier in April and significantly lower than the 47% recorded when he assumed office in January 2025. The survey also found that only 22% of those polled support his management of the cost-of-living crisis. Conversely, the president has stated that he does “not care about polling” and is obligated “to do the right thing.”

With shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remaining disrupted, the average price of gasoline in the US has climbed to $4.2 per gallon. Meanwhile, Brent crude oil has hit the $115 threshold, up from approximately $70 prior to the start of the war.