Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after talks with Iran ended without a deal -- a familiar return to hardline threats and another flirting with brinkmanship.

In recent weeks, Washington has repeatedly warned that any disruption to the strait would endanger the global economy. Yet now, as Tehran signals that passage will continue, the United States itself is introducing the very risk it had warned against, with consequences that extend far beyond any intended target.

So who, exactly, is the blockade aimed at? Not just Iran, but anyone refueling their cars at the gas pump, including those promised a cheaper, stronger America.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service