U.S. Central Command Announces Naval Blockade of Iranian Ports from April 13, Ensures Strait of Hormuz Navigation Remains Open

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has officially announced that American forces will begin implementing a comprehensive blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports. The operation is scheduled to commence on April 13 at 10 a.m. ET, following a formal proclamation by the President According to the official statement, the blockade will be enforced impartially on vessels of all nations operating in and out of Iranian ports and coastal areas. This includes all key Iranian ports located along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

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— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 12, 2026

However, CENTCOM clarified that the blockade will not interfere with the freedom of navigation through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz for vessels traveling to and from non-Iranian ports. The assurance is aimed at maintaining global trade flows through one of the world’s most vital energy corridors. Authorities have stated that additional operational details will be communicated to commercial shipping operators via formal maritime advisories ahead of the enforcement deadline. Mariners have been strongly advised to monitor official “Notice to Mariners” broadcasts and maintain communication with U.S. naval forces using bridge-to-bridge Channel 16 while operating in the Gulf of Oman and near the Strait of Hormuz. The development marks a significant escalation in maritime security measures in the region and is expected to have wide-ranging implications for global shipping, energy markets, and geopolitical stability.