U.S. Deploys 16 Warships to Enforce Iran Blockade

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. U.S. military operations targeting Iran during remarks at the Pentagon on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

U.S. U.S. and Iranian naval capabilities. Hegseth said, "We're using 10% of the world's most powerful navy, and you have 0% of your Navy," underscoring Iran's lack of a viable naval force. U.S. Navy currently has 16 warships deployed in the Middle East, including 11 destroyers, three amphibious assault ships, an aircraft carrier, and a littoral combat ship, out of a total battle force of roughly 300 warships.

Joint Chiefs chairman described the blockade operations as maneuvering "like driving a sports car through a supermarket parking lot on a pay day weekend," highlighting the complexity of enforcing the blockade amid civilian maritime traffic. More than 10,000 sailors, marines, and airmen are involved in the effort, using ships, planes, and helicopters to maintain the blockade.

Joint Chiefs chairman reported that thirteen ships have turned around after warnings, with no vessels boarded so far. U.S. forces will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any ship attempting to provide material support to Iran globally, warning, "Turn around or prepare to be boarded. We will use force."

Strategic Position Hegseth stated that Iran is moving its military assets but is unable to replenish its military power nearly seven weeks into the conflict. "You can move things around, but you can't actually rebuild," he said, adding that Iran no longer has a viable defense industry.

A recent AP-NORC poll shows that nearly 60% of Americans believe U.S. military action in Iran has been excessive. Additionally, 45% of Americans are extremely or very concerned about their ability to afford gas in the coming months. Hegseth responded to press questions by stating, "You only seek the negative," and asserted that Americans see success in Iran.