U.S. blockade of Iranian ports restarts
A U.S. military blockade on Iranian ports resumed at 4 p.m. ET, at President Trump’s orders, U.S. Central Command said.
“There are currently more than 20 U.S. Navy warships and hundreds of military aircraft operating across the Middle East,” CENTCOM wrote on X. “American forces remain vigilant, lethal, and ready.”
The restart of the blockade — which began in mid-April and lasted for about two months — is the latest sign that fragile diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Iran are fraying.
The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding last month that extended their ceasefire by 60 days, required the U.S. to end its naval blockade and required Iran to allow safe passage of commercial ships. In the last week, Iran attacked several ships, and Mr. Trump declared the ceasefire “over,” resuming attacks on Iran.
In its previous iteration, the blockade on Iranian ports was designed to choke Iran’s economy by cutting off its ability to export goods. It was also part of a conflict between the U.S. and Iran for control of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
During the prior blockade, Central Command said it turned around more than 140 commercial ships, and struck some vessels that it said didn’t comply. Dozens of ships were allowed to proceed with humanitarian aid.
