U.S. Naval Blockade Of Iran Redirects 100 Commercial Vessels Near Strait Of Hormuz

The United States said its naval blockade against Iran has redirected 100 commercial vessels since the operation began in April, increasing pressure around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the blockade started on April 13 under a presidential order and is being enforced against ships of all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

According to CENTCOM, more than 15,000 U.S. military personnel have taken part in the operation over the past six weeks.

The military said forces redirected 100 vessels, disabled four ships and allowed 26 humanitarian aid vessels to pass.

“Our service members are doing extraordinary work,” CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper said in a statement. He said the operation had stopped all trade moving into and out of Iranian ports and increased economic pressure on Tehran.

The U.S. military said more than 200 aircraft and warships are supporting the mission, including the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, the USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group and several guided-missile destroyers.

The operation has added pressure on commercial shipping in the Gulf region, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, where nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass.

The U.S. military said the blockade began after Iranian officials blocked the waterway and threatened to charge tolls on vessels using the route.

Uncertainty over access to the strait has increased oil and gas prices and raised concerns in global shipping and energy markets.

The Pentagon estimated earlier this month that the blockade has cost Iran about $4.8 billion in lost oil revenue.

President Donald Trump has delayed new military strikes in the region and paused parts of the Pentagon’s “Project Freedom” escort operation after requests from Gulf allies. However, the naval blockade is still continuing.

The operation has also faced criticism in Washington. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine were questioned by lawmakers over U.S. strategy in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz.

Efforts in Congress to stop the operation under the War Powers Act have so far failed, with the administration saying a temporary ceasefire changed the timeline for congressional approval.

Talks between the United States and Iran also remain stalled, as both sides continue to reject each other’s demands over regional tensions and Iran’s nuclear programme.

Reference: US Centcom