U.S. Extends Naval Operations Beyond Strait of Hormuz to Intercept Iranian-Linked Ships

S. military announced on Thursday an expansion of its blockade targeting Iranian ports, extending enforcement beyond the Strait of Hormuz to global waters, including the Indo-Pacific region. U.S. forces will intercept Iranian-flagged vessels and those suspected of supporting Iran's sanctioned oil trade, including so-called 'Dark Fleet' ships, according to military statements.

U.S. Central Command on Tuesday, applies to all ships regardless of nationality heading into or from Iranian ports. Enforcement occurs inside Iran’s territorial seas and is led primarily by Navy destroyers, supported by fighter jets, intelligence aircraft, helicopters, and aerial refueling tankers.

The USS Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is currently operating in the area. Since the blockade went into effect on Monday, no vessels have broken through, with 13 ships voluntarily turning around and complying with orders. U.S.

Central Command reported no need to board any vessels as of Thursday morning. Captains of the turned-around ships made the decision not to transit or breach the blockade. U.S. Navy issued warnings via radio that non-compliant vessels may face boarding, seizure, or force, as part of the enforcement operation.

U.S. military is also conducting maritime interdiction actions in the Indo-Pacific Command area against ships that departed before the blockade began. Six ships were turned around on Tuesday as part of efforts to pause trade from Iranian ports.

U.S. and Iran in Pakistan. S. officials clarified that the action is a blockade of Iran’s ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz itself. Non-Iranian-linked traffic continues to be allowed through the Strait.

Caine as illicit ships evading international regulations, sanctions, or insurance requirements, are specifically targeted under the expanded enforcement. S. military statements.