The United States Central Command announced that U.S. forces will begin implementing a maritime blockade of Iranian ports on Monday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.

According to a statement posted on X, the operation is set to begin April 13 at 10 a.m. ET, following a presidential proclamation.

“U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports,” the statement said.

The blockade will apply to vessels of all nations, targeting any ships entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including those along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

CENTCOM emphasized that the enforcement will be carried out impartially and is not directed at any specific country’s vessels.

At the same time, U.S. officials stressed that freedom of navigation will remain intact for ships not traveling to or from Iran. Vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz en route to non-Iranian ports will not be affected.

CENTCOM also issued guidance to mariners in the region, advising them to monitor official maritime broadcasts and to maintain contact with U.S. naval forces on bridge-to-bridge Channel 16 while navigating the Gulf of Oman and approaches to the Strait of Hormuz.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)