U.S. seals Iran’s sea trade as blockade fully takes effect

The United States says its maritime blockade of Iran is now fully implemented, cutting off roughly 90% of Iran’s seaborne trade and threatening its economy, as more than 10,000 U.S. troops and a large naval fleet enforce the measure. In the first full day of enforcement, no ships passed the Strait of Hormuz; reports indicate a couple of vessels crossed on day two. Analysts estimate about $435 million in daily economic damage to Iran, with potential disruption to global oil flows, while China criticizes the move and the IMF warns of risks to world growth.