KABUL: The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced the start of a naval blockade targeting all ports of Iran, following orders from Donald Trump.
In a statement, CENTCOM said the operation would begin on April 13 (U.S. time) and would cover all maritime entry and exit points to Iranian ports.
The command noted that the blockade will be applied “neutrally” to all vessels of any country entering or leaving Iranian coastal areas, including the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
However, it clarified that freedom of navigation for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz toward non-Iranian ports will not be obstructed.
CENTCOM added that further guidance will be issued through notices to mariners and advised commercial vessels to stay updated and maintain communication with U.S. naval forces via Channel 16.
Iranian officials have not yet responded to the announcement.
The move comes after the failure of recent talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad.
CENTCOM announces naval blockade of Iran ports
