Trump doubles down on brutal blockade of Iran, ignoring peace offers and driving up costs at home

President Donald Trump is making it clear he plans to keep the US blockade of Iranian ports in place for the foreseeable future, despite growing calls for peace and mounting economic pain at home. According to White House officials, Trump and his top aides met with energy executives to discuss extending the blockade for months if necessary, aiming to choke Iran’s economy and force concessions on its nuclear program.

This hardline stance comes even as Pakistan prepares to receive a revised Iranian peace proposal, signaling a potential diplomatic opening. Trump, however, responded with threats and mockery on his Truth Social platform, warning Iran to “get smart soon” while refusing to lift the blockade until he sees concrete guarantees on Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The blockade is having real consequences beyond Tehran. Oil and gas prices are climbing again amid fears over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and Iran’s currency has plummeted to record lows against the US dollar. These economic ripples are felt by Americans already struggling with inflation.

At a congressional hearing this week, Pentagon financial officer Jules “Jay” Hurst revealed that the US military has spent roughly $25 billion on the Iran war since it began in late February. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the conflict as an “astounding military success,” dismissing critics as “the biggest adversary.” But Democratic lawmakers pushed back hard, highlighting the war’s toll on American families and questioning the true cost and strategy behind the ongoing blockade.

Rep. Ro Khanna pressed Hegseth on the price tag, pointing out expert disagreements and the war’s impact on food and gas prices. Hegseth deflected by framing the conflict as a necessary fight to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. When asked about civilian casualties, including a strike on an elementary school, Hegseth called it “unfortunate” but refused to assign a monetary cost.

The war has already claimed 13 US service members, with the situation remaining volatile despite a fragile ceasefire. Veteran Democratic Rep. Seth Moulton challenged Hegseth’s rosy assessment of the blockade, likening it to a futile tit-for-tat reminiscent of the War of 1812. Hegseth’s combative response underscored the administration’s unwillingness to admit any setbacks.

This aggressive posture risks prolonging a costly conflict that is straining the US economy and fraying domestic support. Trump’s refusal to engage seriously with peace efforts and his insistence on maintaining the blockade reveal a pattern of using foreign conflict to distract from domestic scandals and consolidate power — at the expense of American lives and livelihoods.

Only Clowns Are Orange will continue to track the unfolding Iran war and hold this administration accountable for the reckless escalation and human cost of its policies.