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US to enforce sweeping naval blockade on Iran from today

Blockade will cover all Iranian ports, oil terminals and coastal areas, says US military

By Reuters
July 14, 2026
Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, July 8, 2026. — Reuters
Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, July 8, 2026. — Reuters

LONDON: The US military will begin enforcing a maritime blockade on Iran on Tuesday, the US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) said on Monday.

The blockade, covering all of Iran's ports, oil terminals and coastal areas, will be enforced for all vessel traffic – regardless of flag – from 2000 GMT on July 14, the centre said in an advisory.

"Any vessel suspected of entering or departing the blockaded area without authorisation is subject to interception, diversion, and capture. Non-compliant vessels may be legally compelled with force," the statement said.

The centre said neutral transit through the Strait of Hormuz heading to or from non-Iranian destinations will not be impeded.