CENTCOM to Enforce Blockade on Ships to and from Iran

U.S. Central Command will begin enforcing a blockade on all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports on April 13 at 10 a.m. ET under a presidential proclamation. The directive covers ships regardless of flag or ownership operating in Iranian coastal waters, including ports on the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM noted freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz will not be impeded for ships transiting to or from non-Iranian ports.

The command stated enforcement will be applied impartially and that commercial mariners will receive formal Notices to Mariners with guidance before the blockade begins. Vessels in the Gulf of Oman and approaches to the Strait of Hormuz were advised to monitor maritime broadcasts and to maintain bridge-to-bridge radio contact with U.S. naval forces on VHF channel 16.

A CENTCOM statement read: ‘The blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.’

Iranian officials reacted. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of Iran’s parliament, posted on social media: ‘Enjoy the current pump figures. With the so-called blockade, soon you’ll be nostalgic for $4-$5 gas.’

CENTCOM did not specify how long the blockade will remain in effect and said it will provide operational updates as conditions change. Shipping companies, insurers and energy traders are expected to monitor enforcement closely and may revise risk assessments and insurance rates for cargo bound for the Gulf.

The announcement follows recent maritime restrictions and incidents in Iranian coastal waters that have led to increased naval deployments and surveillance. Governments and commercial fleets are awaiting further clarification from U.S. naval authorities before the April 13 start time.