The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has declared that American naval forces have fully implemented a maritime blockade of Iranian ports, effectively halting economic trade through the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper confirmed that the blockade, which began less than 36 hours prior, has completely stopped the flow of goods in and out of Iran by sea.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil passes, has been at the centre of escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. The blockade was announced by US President Donald Trump on Sunday following the collapse of Pakistani-mediated peace talks with Tehran. Trump had previously sought but failed to secure European NATO support for securing the waterway, which Iran had closed to “enemy ships” in response to a US-Israeli bombing campaign launched in late February.
Since the blockade’s implementation, CENTCOM reports that more than 20 commercial vessels, including tankers, have traversed the strait. However, at least two vessels sanctioned by the United States—the Iranian-flagged container carrier Kashan and the Comoros-flagged tanker Elpis—sailed through Hormuz on Monday. Additionally, the US has intercepted eight tankers since the start of the blockade.
Iran has demanded recognition of its sovereignty over the waterway and the right to impose tolls, while the US maintains its position on maritime security in the region. On April 8, the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, raising cautious optimism for de-escalation. However, both sides have since accused each other of presenting unacceptable terms, casting doubt on the prospects for a lasting resolution.
The conflict has already disrupted global trade and driven up energy prices, underscoring the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz to international markets.
