US President Donald Trump has instructed aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing US officials.
In recent meetings, Trump has opted to continue squeezing Iran's economy and oil exports by preventing shipping to and from its ports, the report said, adding that he believed that his other options, including resuming bombing or walking away from the conflict, carried more risk than maintaining the blockade.
Reuters could not immediately verify the report.

Venezuela quake death toll nears 3,000 as rescue effort winds down
Eight injured in New York shooting
Trump appears on National Mall for July 4 speech after storm-related delay
Qatar says all maritime activities will resume immediately
St. Petersburg region port, oil terminal hit in Ukrainian drone attack