Hormuz Mines & Crypto Tolls: Iran Imposes New Rules on Strait as Trump Keeps US Forces on High Alert

On the second day of the fragile ceasefire, Thursday, April 9, 2026, the IRGC claimed the presence of naval mines in the usual shipping lanes of the Strait of Hormuz, forcing vessels into two alternative routes. Iran notified mediators it would restrict traffic to just 12 ships per day (down from 100+ pre-war) and demand transit fees paid exclusively in cryptocurrency or Chinese Yuan.

Trump’s Defiance:

President Donald Trump countered that all U.S. military assets will remain in position until Iran proves "full compliance". Despite the naval tension, an Iranian delegation arrives in Islamabad tonight for crucial talks scheduled for Saturday, focused on Tehran’s 10-point peace proposal.