Donald Trump has directed his administration to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran, aiming to intensify economic pressure while ceasefire conditions remain in place and diplomatic talks stay stalled, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday, citing U.S. officials.

According to the report, Trump made the decision in recent White House meetings with senior security officials, choosing to continue restricting Iranian oil exports and shipping to and from Iranian ports.

Officials said the strategy is designed to squeeze Iran’s economy and force concessions over its nuclear programme, particularly demands that Tehran suspend uranium enrichment for up to 20 years.

The report said Trump views the blockade as a “high-risk bid” but considers it less risky than restarting military strikes or abandoning the confrontation altogether.

He has also reportedly rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and defer nuclear negotiations, arguing it shows a lack of good faith.

A White House spokesperson said the U.S. has achieved its military objectives in the conflict and now holds “maximum leverage” over Iran through the blockade, which has significantly reduced maritime activity through the key shipping route.

However, the prolonged blockade has also contributed to rising global energy prices and increased political pressure domestically in the United States.

The report added that the ongoing conflict has led to the lowest levels of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz since the escalation of hostilities earlier this year, with uncertainty persisting over whether the crisis will end in a negotiated settlement or continued confrontation.