LONDON — The United States reinstated a naval blockade of Iranian ports on Tuesday as fighting with Iran intensified, ending a ceasefire that had suspended the maritime restrictions, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. maritime advisories.
The renewed blockade applies to maritime traffic entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas. CENTCOM said vessels suspected of attempting to enter or leave the blockaded area without authorization could be intercepted, diverted or captured, while warning that force could be used against non-compliant ships if necessary. Neutral transit through the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian destinations would continue to be permitted, according to official notices.
The move follows a sharp escalation in hostilities between Washington and Tehran after the collapse of a 60-day ceasefire. U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered renewed military operations against Iranian targets, while Iran has launched strikes against U.S. forces and regional assets, according to statements from U.S. and Iranian authorities.
CENTCOM said the reinstated blockade mirrors measures first introduced in April before being lifted in June under the ceasefire arrangement. During the earlier enforcement period, U.S. forces redirected more than 140 vessels, disabled nine ships that it said failed to comply with the blockade, and allowed humanitarian shipments to proceed under specified conditions.
Commercial shipping operators have been advised to monitor official maritime notices and maintain contact with U.S. naval authorities while operating near the Gulf of Oman and the approaches to the Strait of Hormuz. The full impact of the renewed blockade on regional shipping and global energy markets remained unclear, and the situation continued to develop.
