U.S. Implements Naval Blockade of All Iranian Ports
The U.S. military began a naval blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, following a presidential directive after negotiations in Pakistan failed. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated the blockade would be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations but would not impede freedom of navigation for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz to non-Iranian ports. The move, which commenced at 1400 GMT on April 13, is aimed at cutting off Iran's oil export revenue. More than 15 U.S. warships are reportedly in place to support the operation.
Date: April 13, 2026
Location: Middle East, Iran
Conflict: US-Iran Conflict
Category: naval
Severity: CRITICAL
Source: The Guardian, Anadolu Ajansı, The Times of India, TRT World