CENTCOM Blockade Redirects 100th Vessel Under Operation Epic Fury
U.S. Central Command reached a significant milestone on May 23, 2026, redirecting the 100th commercial vessel as part of the ongoing maritime blockade against Iran. The operation, involving over 15,000 personnel and the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, aims to halt trade at Iranian ports following Tehran's earlier restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Admiral Brad Cooper stated the blockade has successfully squeezed Iran economically, with 26 humanitarian aid vessels permitted passage while several non-compliant ships were disabled.
Date: May 23, 2026
Location: Iran
Conflict: US-Iran Conflict
Category: naval
Severity: HIGH
Source: Daily Excelsior