U.S. Central Command Enforces Blockade Against Iran

The United States Central Command is enforcing a maritime blockade against Iran designed to halt traffic entering and leaving Iranian ports. Since reinstating the blockade last month, U.S. forces have redirected 44 commercial vessels, boarded two, and disabled two others, including a Mozambique-flagged tanker in the Gulf of Oman. This operation follows a previous blockade period from April 13 to June 18, 2026, as part of a broader conflict that began in February.

Despite the blockade, U.S. officials report that the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains open for commercial transit. Military officials stated that U.S. forces have assisted more than 1,000 vessels in navigating the waterway over the past three months despite Iranian aggression.

President Donald Trump announced that negotiations are underway with Iran to completely reopen the strait as a first phase, which would be followed by discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program. However, the Iranian government has denied these claims. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated that Tehran is not engaged in bilateral talks with Washington, and senior military adviser Mohsen Rezaee warned that U.S. warships using unauthorized routes would be targeted.