US Enforces Naval Blockade on Iran, Halting Ship Traffic for 48 Hours

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said Wednesday that its naval forces have completely blocked maritime traffic in and out of Iranian ports for the first 48 hours of an ongoing blockade, marking a sharp escalation in tensions with Tehran.

In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said no vessels had “made it past U.S. forces” since the blockade began. It added that nine ships attempting to transit the restricted zone were intercepted and directed back toward Iranian ports or coastal waters.

“U.S. naval vessels are on patrol in the Gulf of Oman as CENTCOM continues to execute a U.S. blockade on ships entering and departing Iranian ports. U.S. forces are present, vigilant, and ready to ensure compliance,” the statement read.

The blockade comes amid heightened regional tensions following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, which analysts have described as unprovoked. The move effectively cuts off Iran’s seaborne trade routes, disrupting commercial and logistical operations in the Persian Gulf.

President Donald Trump addressed the development on Truth Social Wednesday, saying he was “permanently opening” the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments. “I am doing it for them, also – and the World,” Trump wrote, referencing China. He claimed Beijing had “agreed not to send weapons to Iran” and added that Chinese President Xi Jinping “will give me a big, fat, hug when I get there in a few weeks.”

CENTCOM said the blockade was announced Sunday after talks mediated by Pakistan failed to secure a peace deal with Iran. By Tuesday, U.S. warships had reportedly stopped all Iranian trade through the strait.

Trump is scheduled to make a state visit to China on May 14, with President Xi expected to travel to Washington at a later date.

Iranian authorities had not issued an official response to the blockade at press time.