The Standoff and Mutual Blockade

In July 2247, tensions escalated between Earth and Mars, culminating in a standoff where both sides refused to compromise on critical demands. Mars threatened to withhold Phos-5 shipments unless their conditions were met, while Earth remained adamant that negotiations would only occur after Mars returned control. This deadlock transitioned into a prolonged mutual blockade that limited all trade, severing the connection between the two planetary factions for eight months. Neither side anticipated the endurance required for such a standoff, believing that the other would soon yield to pressure.