The United States has launched a sweeping naval blockade targeting Iranian ports, dramatically escalating tensions in the Gulf following the collapse of high-stakes negotiations over the weekend. From 10:00 ET on Monday, April 13, 2026, US Central Command (CENTCOM) began enforcing restrictions on all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal waters, including key hubs in both the Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
The move applies to ships of all nationalities, signalling a broad and uncompromising approach. CENTCOM stressed that the blockade would be applied impartially, while insisting it will not interfere with international shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz—provided those vessels are not bound for Iranian ports.
Further operational guidance is expected to be issued directly to commercial shipping operators. The decision comes after negotiations between Washington and Tehran broke down without agreement, particularly over the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for global energy supplies.
In a sharply worded statement posted online, Donald Trump declared that the United States would “begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” underscoring the administration’s hardening stance. The development marks a significant turning point in the standoff, raising concerns over potential disruptions to global trade and the risk of further escalation in an already volatile region.