Six ships ‘turn back’ after US blockade of Iranian ports

WASHINGTON : No ships made it past the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, with six turning back on orders of the US military, officials claimed Tuesday. US Central Command said that more than 12 warships and 100 aircraft were involved in the first 24 hours to stop ships from being allowed in or out of Iranian ports.

The United States has announced that six merchant vessels were compelled to alter course during the initial phase of a newly enforced naval blockade targeting Iranian ports, signalling a notable escalation in regional maritime tensions.

According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), no vessel was able to breach the blockade within the first 24 hours of its implementation. The ships reportedly complied with directives to turn back upon nearing restricted waters associated with Iranian port access.

The operation—supported by a substantial deployment of U.S. personnel, naval assets, and air support—is intended to curb maritime movement to and from Iran as part of wider strategic pressure measures.

Officials indicated that enforcement spans critical approaches in the Gulf of Oman and adjoining sea lanes, with continuous surveillance and interception measures in place to ensure adherence by commercial shipping.

CENTCOM further clarified that the restrictions apply to vessels of all nationalities seeking entry to or departure from Iranian ports, while humanitarian cargo is permitted subject to stringent inspection procedures.

This development has heightened concerns among global shipping stakeholders and energy markets, given the region’s pivotal role in international trade and oil transportation routes.

US President Donald Trump is hoping the blockade will force officials in Tehran to accept Washington’s terms for ending the US-Israel war on Iran. He announced the blockade after weekend talks broke down between US and Iranian negotiations in Pakistan, which had followed a ceasefire announcement that halted attacks.