U.S. Central Command Announces End of Hormuz Blockade Enforcement

U.S. Central Command announced on 18 June 2026 that it had ceased all blockade enforcement operations affecting Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz. The command stated that American naval forces are no longer impeding vessel transit to or from Iranian ports.

The announcement specified that U.S. naval ships will remain in the area to monitor compliance with the terms of the agreement. Central Command did not detail the specific monitoring procedures or enforcement mechanisms that would apply if violations occur.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council stated that the Persian Gulf Strait Authority would process authorization requests for vessels seeking passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The council indicated that no transit fees would be collected during a 60-day negotiation period, though all vessels must submit requests to the newly designated government body.

The council also stated that measures would be taken to clear mines placed in the strait during the preceding period of military operations.

U.S. Navy vessels permitted more than a dozen ships to transit on the day the enforcement ended. Iranian state television reported the council’s statements regarding fee waivers and authorization procedures.

The original agreement is described in sources as a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. No text of the memorandum has been released publicly. The U.S. administration has characterized elements of the agreement as including possible economic measures related to Iran’s post-conflict recovery, though no specific measures have been enumerated in the available statements.