CENTCOM Enforces Maritime Blockade, Redirecting 78 Ships Near Strait of Hormuz
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on May 16, 2026, that it has successfully redirected 78 commercial vessels and disabled four others since the initiation of the naval blockade on Iranian ports. Operation Epic Fury, directed by President Trump, aims to dismantle Iran's security apparatus and halt energy exports. Iranian state media retaliated by claiming the IRGC remains capable of securing the waterway despite U.S. naval presence, though tensions remain at an all-time high.
Date: May 16, 2026
Location: Iran
Conflict: US-Iran Conflict
Category: naval
Severity: HIGH
Source: Anadolu Agency