UK maritime agency warns ship masters blockade of Iran’s ports still in place
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- UK Maritime Trade Operations warns a blockade on Iran’s ports remains in effect.
- Ships in the Strait of Hormuz were advised to stay away from US units amid heightened military risk.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said a military blockade on Iran’s ports remains in place, warning that it is “restricting all traffic inbound and outbound from these ports.”
In an advisory issued by the Royal Navy-led body, ship masters were cautioned that vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz should keep at least 30 nautical miles away from “US units” and remain prepared to respond to radio hails or queries from US forces “to reduce risk of being mistaken as a threat.”
The notice also warned that enforcement actions could include “disabling and destructive fires upon vessels who do not demonstrate immediate compliance with blockading forces.”
The agency further advised against ship-to-ship transfers and described the area as a “warning zone” where “dangerous military operations are taking place.”
It added that vessels remain free to navigate international waters, but urged heightened caution due to ongoing military activity in the region.
