US CENTCOM enforces naval blockade of Iranian ports in Arabian Sea
United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on May 2, 2026, that its forces have intercepted or redirected 48 commercial vessels over the past 20 days to enforce a naval blockade of Iranian ports. The operation, which includes the deployment of the USS New Orleans, aims to ensure compliance with US-imposed sanctions following the collapse of diplomatic talks in Islamabad. CENTCOM's efforts in international waters, including the Gulf of Oman, reflect a significant escalation in regional maritime security operations.