US Navy Resumes Sea Blockade of Iranian Ports

The United States military has reinstated its naval blockade of Iranian ports, effective early Wednesday. The move comes in response to what the Pentagon describes as ongoing Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the decision in a post on social media platform X. It stated that American forces resumed the blockade at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The measure targets all vessels heading to Iranian ports and coastal areas. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. About one-fifth of the world's oil passes through it, making it a critical route for global energy supplies. The blockade aims to stop what the U.S. calls "continued Iranian aggression" against maritime traffic in that area. No further details on the duration or specific enforcement rules were provided. The announcement marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions in the region.