US Central Command to Launch Naval Blockade of Iranian Ports On April 13, 2026

CENTCOM confirms naval blockade of Iranian ports begins today

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces will begin implementing a naval blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on Monday, April 13, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. 

According to CENTCOM, the operation will cover shipping activity linked to Iranian ports across the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The measure will be enforced uniformly against vessels of all nationalities attempting to dock at or depart from Iranian coastal areas.

The command emphasized that the blockade will be impartial and comprehensive, targeting “all vessels entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas.” At the same time, CENTCOM clarified that freedom of navigation will remain unaffected for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non‑Iranian ports, signaling an effort to limit disruption to global shipping routes outside Iranian jurisdiction.

Additional instructions are expected to be issued to commercial mariners ahead of the blockade’s enforcement. CENTCOM urged shipping operators to monitor official maritime advisories and maintain communication with US naval forces when navigating the Gulf of Oman and approaches to the Strait of Hormuz.

The announcement marks a significant escalation in maritime operations around Iran, heightening international concern over potential disruptions to one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.