WASHINGTON – US Central Command (Centcom) has announced that it will enforce a blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, effective April 13 at 10:00 ET (14:00 GMT). The move comes in response to escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, with the stated aim of restricting Iranian maritime activity and addressing concerns over regional security. President Donald Trump announced the blockade during a press conference at the White House on April 12. Iranian officials have not yet responded to the announcement.
Recent months have seen a sharp increase in hostilities between Washington and Tehran. The US accuses Iran of supporting armed groups across the Middle East and engaging in activities that threaten international shipping, particularly in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The waterway, a key route for global oil shipments, has previously been the site of confrontations, including the seizure of vessels and attacks on tankers attributed to Iranian forces or their proxies. The decision to impose a blockade follows several incidents that raised alarm over the safety of commercial maritime traffic and the stability of global energy markets.
Analysts warn that the blockade could have far-reaching consequences for international relations and global trade. The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant portion of the world’s oil transport, and any disruption to shipping lanes is likely to impact fuel prices and economic stability worldwide. Several international actors, including European and regional governments, have expressed concern over the potential for escalation and called for restraint on all sides. Financial markets have already shown volatility in anticipation of possible supply disruptions.
“The blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Centcom forces will not impede freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports,” Centcom said in an official statement posted on social media.
Additional information will be provided to commercial mariners through a formal notice before the blockade begins, Centcom added. Observers are awaiting official reactions from both Iranian authorities and the international community as the situation develops.