U.S. Says It Has Fully Enforced Blockade On Iran Ports, Halting Sea Trade

2026-04-17 03:05:43

(MENAFN- Khaama Press) The U.S. Central Command said it has fully enforced a blockade of Iran's ports over the past 36 hours, effectively disrupting the country's maritime trade routes.

CENTCOM commander Brad Cooper said in a brief statement that U.S. forces have halted nearly all of Iran's sea-based commercial activity through coordinated naval operations.

The move follows an order by Donald Trump after negotiations with Iran in Islamabad failed to produce an agreement, escalating tensions in the region.

CENTCOM said the blockade began Monday evening and includes key strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.

Iran had earlier warned that any threat to its ports in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman would lead to broader regional consequences, raising fears of escalation.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most vital energy corridors, with a significant portion of global oil supplies passing through it, making any disruption a major concern for international markets.

Recent tensions between Washington and Tehran have intensified following weeks of conflict and stalled diplomatic efforts, increasing the risk of wider regional instability.

The enforcement of the blockade marks a sharp escalation in U.S. pressure on Iran, with potential implications for global trade, energy markets, and regional security dynamics.

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