In a post on X, US Central Command said US naval ships were actively patrolling the Gulf of Oman as part of the blockade. He added, “American forces are present, alert, and ready to ensure compliance.”The audio message, allegedly broadcast to ships in the area, offers a warning: “The United States has announced an official blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas… Do not attempt to violate the blockade. Ships will be boarded for interception and confiscation.”It further warns that ships should “turn and prepare to board,” adding: “If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force. The entire U.S. Navy stands ready to enforce compliance.”
Intensifying blockade operations
This development comes at a time when the United States is intensifying enforcement of the naval blockade it imposed earlier this week. The US warship, USS Spruance (DDG 111), recently forced an Iranian-flagged cargo ship to turn back after it attempted to evade restrictions.
Central Command said at least 10 ships had already been redirected, with no “ships” breaching the blockade since it was launched. The operation aims to cut off maritime trade routes to Iran and effectively isolate its economy.The blockade extends to major waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, with US forces controlling shipping movement in and out of Iranian ports.This warning comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, even as diplomatic efforts continue. Iran has threatened to halt trade in the Gulf region if the blockade is not lifted, indicating the risk of further escalation.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has indicated that the conflict may be “very close to being over”, with talks likely to resume soon.
