US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Sunday, August 23, that American forces have forced 70 commercial vessels to alter their routes since the launch of a new round of the naval blockade against Iran.
In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM reported that, as part of enforcing the blockade, US forces have diverted 70 commercial ships, disabled three vessels, and stopped and inspected two others to ensure compliance with maritime regulations.
CENTCOM also published an image of the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn, stating that the vessel is actively carrying out US blockade operations against Iran in the Sea of Oman.
The naval blockade of Iranian ports was resumed following the recent round of military clashes between Iran and the United States. Iranian government officials have noted in recent days that the blockade has brought Iran’s oil exports to a halt.
The escalation of naval pressure against Iran coincides with the Donald Trump administration’s announcement of a broad campaign to intensify economic sanctions and pressure on Tehran. US government officials have described the campaign as an unprecedented effort to maximize pressure on the Islamic Republic.
