US military says blockade of Iran ports ‘completely’ halts economic trade
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- US Central Command says blockade of Iranian ports has stopped all sea-based trade entering and leaving the country.
- Operation involves over 10,000 troops, with reports of ships being turned back in the Strait of Hormuz region.
US Central Command said a maritime blockade of Iran has been “fully implemented,” claiming that all sea-based commercial traffic in and out of the country has been halted.
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In a statement published on social media, CENTCOM said the operation is being enforced against vessels of all nationalities entering or leaving Iranian coastal waters and ports, describing the move as part of ongoing military operations in the region.
Trade ‘completely halted’
CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said more than 90 percent of Iran’s economy depends on maritime trade, arguing that the blockade has “completely halted” shipping activity within 36 hours of its implementation.
The US military said more than ten thousand personnel, including sailors, Marines and Air Force units, are involved in the operation, supported by warships and aircraft deployed across the region.
According to the statement, multiple merchant vessels were instructed to turn back and return to Iranian ports during the first day of enforcement.
Naval enforcement in key waterways
Reports cited by Reuters indicated that US naval forces intercepted oil tankers attempting to leave Iranian ports and ordered them to reverse course after radio contact in the Gulf of Oman.
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The operation appears focused on controlling access through strategic maritime routes linked to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global energy supplies.
Economic pressure strategy
The US said the blockade aims to increase pressure on Tehran amid ongoing conflict linked to the wider war involving Iran and Israel, following the collapse of recent negotiations in Pakistan.
US officials argue the measure is intended to push Iran toward accepting Washington’s terms for ending hostilities, while Tehran has described the blockade as a violation of the current ceasefire.
Rising market and diplomatic tensions
Oil prices briefly surged above 100 dollars per barrel before easing on expectations of renewed talks between the two sides, according to market reports.
