The US president has faced intense political pressure to end the war on Iran, which is unpopular even with much of his base, has increased costs for American consumers paying at the pump and unnerved US allies.

The latest move higher comes amid reports that the U.S. will look to extend its blockade of Iranian ports.

The US president has faced intense political pressure to end the war on Iran, which is unpopular even with much of his base, has increased costs for American consumers paying at…