Israel, US consider land blockade against Iran to increase economic isolation – report

The United States and Israel are reportedly considering a land blockade against Iran to intensify its economic isolation, as the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz is believed to have reached its limits. US President Donald Trump discussed this plan, along with other options, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during their recent meeting in Washington. A senior Israeli official stated, "What if you just blocked the land? Suppose Iran can't bring anything in and cannot take anything out." The implementation of such a blockade would necessitate cooperation from Iran's neighboring countries, including Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, who would need to be persuaded by the US and Israel to restrict the flow of goods to and from Iran. Retired US General Sean MacFarland commented on the potential impact, saying, "If you take away Iran's ability to trade... then you are isolating them economically. That's the way to bring them to their knees." This consideration comes as Iran seeks to rearm following previous US and Israeli operations.