US redirects 6 vessels, disables 1 in naval blockade on Iran
01:12, 20/07/2026, MondayU: Update: 01:23, 20/07/2026, Monday
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File photoUS Central Command announced on Sunday that American forces have redirected six commercial vessels and disabled one ship as of mid-July, intensifying enforcement of a naval blockade against Iran that Washington resumed earlier this week to restrict maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports.
US Central Command said on Sunday that American forces have redirected six commercial vessels and disabled one ship since enforcement began, intensifying a naval blockade targeting maritime traffic to and from Iran.
Enforcement actions
The military command revealed the latest tally in a statement posted on the social media platform X, noting that the interdictions were carried out as of July 19. CENTCOM said the measures were designed to ensure full compliance with the maritime restrictions reimposed this month.
Naval operations
CENTCOM noted the ongoing deployment of the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn (DDG 113) in enforcing the restrictions. "U.S. Navy Sailors remain focused and vigilant aboard guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn (DDG 113), as American forces continue implementing the naval blockade against Iran," the command said.
The command provided specific figures regarding the commercial vessels affected. "As of July 19, CENTCOM has redirected 6 commercial vessels and disabled 1 to ensure full compliance," it said, emphasizing the operation's scope.
Blockade resumed
Washington announced on Tuesday that American forces had resumed a naval blockade targeting vessels transiting to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas. The move marks a significant escalation in US efforts to restrict Tehran's maritime commerce.