Media: Trump instructed aides to prepare for a prolonged blockade of Iran

American leader Donald Trump has instructed his aides to prepare a plan for a prolonged blockade of Iran.

This claim was made by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing sources.

According to their information, the head of the White House has recently expressed support for exerting pressure on the Islamic republic's economy by preventing vessels, including oil tankers, from leaving Iranian ports. In the opinion of the head of the American administration, other options — resuming bombing or withdrawing from the conflict — carry greater risks for Washington than continuing the blockade.

As the publication notes, Trump is receiving conflicting advice regarding further actions toward Iran. Some officials are openly urging the White House to increase pressure on Tehran, but there are also those who express concerns that keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed or continuing military operations would harm the American economy and could have an extremely negative impact on the results of the midterm elections to the U.S. Congress for the Republican Party.