U.S. Central Command said Tuesday that American forces are actively enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports, marking a significant escalation in U.S. military operations in the region.

According to CENTCOM, the blockade is being carried out “impartially” against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports.

The USS Tripoli (LHA 7), carrying roughly 3,500 sailors and Marines, is among the vessels leading the mission in the Arabian Sea.

Officials say the U.S. Navy currently has at least 18 ships deployed across the Middle East, with the blockade operation having begun on April 13.

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