U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has verified that American warships are patrolling the Gulf of Oman to enforce a formal naval blockade against Iranian ports.
The blockade was decreed by President Donald Trump through a presidential proclamation on Sunday, April 12, following the collapse of nearly 20 hours of peace talks in Islamabad concerning Iran's nuclear program. It took effect the next day, Monday, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time.
On the social platform X, CENTCOM issued a stern warning to all ship captains in the vicinity: "Do not attempt to breach the blockade. Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and confiscation if they head to or from an Iranian port. Turn back or prepare to be boarded. Non-compliance will be met with force. The entire U.S. Navy stands ready to ensure this blockade is enforced."
The White House has stated that the operation is "fully operational."
Admiral Brad Cooper, head of CENTCOM, reported that within 36 hours of implementation, U.S. forces successfully halted all inbound and outbound maritime economic trade with Iran.
The operation involves over a dozen warships, more than 100 aircraft, and around 10,000 sailors, marines, and aviators.
In the first 48 hours, no ships managed to break through the blockade: nine merchant vessels were instructed to turn back, and at least eight oil tankers complied with U.S. directives without the need for boarding.
Economic Consequences for Iran
The economic impact on Iran is profound. According to CENTCOM, 90% of Iran's economy relies on international maritime trade, and the country is facing estimated losses of up to $435 million daily. Oil prices have surged to $104.24 per barrel.
Tehran has threatened to disrupt trade routes in the Arabian Gulf, Oman Gulf, and the Red Sea if the blockade continues, and is seeking alternative ports in the southern region to circumvent the operation.
Operation Epic Fury and Diplomatic Developments
The blockade is part of Operation Epic Fury, a joint offensive by the United States and Israel initiated on February 28, which destroyed nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, over 900 military targets, and 158 ships of the Iranian Navy.
Alongside military pressure, Trump announced a diplomatic agreement with China on Wednesday: President Xi Jinping committed, via letter, not to send weapons to Iran in exchange for the U.S. keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, through which 20% of the world's oil passes.
"China is very pleased with the permanent opening of the Strait of Hormuz," Trump stated in an interview with Fox Business Network.
Negotiations with Iran are ongoing: Washington demands a 20-year moratorium on uranium enrichment, while Tehran is proposing a five-year period. Trump remarked that the war is "nearing its conclusion."
Key Questions on the U.S. Naval Blockade of Iran
What triggered the U.S. naval blockade against Iran?
The U.S. naval blockade was initiated following the breakdown of peace negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program, leading President Trump to decree the blockade.
How is the U.S. enforcing the blockade in the Gulf of Oman?
The U.S. is enforcing the blockade with a fleet of over a dozen warships, more than 100 aircraft, and approximately 10,000 personnel, ensuring no ships can enter or leave Iranian ports.
What are the economic consequences for Iran due to the blockade?
Iran is experiencing severe economic losses, with estimates reaching up to $435 million daily, as 90% of its economy depends on maritime trade.
What diplomatic efforts are accompanying the military operation?
In a diplomatic move, President Trump reached an agreement with China, ensuring that China would not supply weapons to Iran, while the U.S. agreed to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.