American military reports boarding and disabling vessels as more than 20 US warships operate across Middle East
WASHINGTON: The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces have redirected 55 commercial vessels, disabled two ships and boarded two others while enforcing Washington’s blockade against Iran amid continuing regional tensions.
CENTCOM disclosed the operations in a post on X, saying US Navy personnel continued monitoring maritime activity from the USS Ross, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer deployed to the region.
According to the command, USS Ross is among more than 20 American warships currently operating in the Middle East in support of US military missions, including enforcement of the blockade.
However, CENTCOM provided no additional information about the commercial vessels involved, their nationalities or the circumstances under which American forces redirected, boarded or disabled them.
US Maintains Strong Naval Presence
The latest announcement comes as Washington maintains substantial military assets across the region following months of hostilities involving Iran.
The conflict erupted in February after the United States and Israel launched a joint offensive against Tehran. Iran subsequently responded with missile and drone attacks against targets in Gulf countries hosting American military assets.
Meanwhile, maritime security has become an increasingly important element of the confrontation as military operations affect shipping routes and regional trade.
Ceasefire Efforts Struggle to Hold
The United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire in April before signing a Pakistan-mediated memorandum of understanding in June aimed at ending hostilities and establishing a framework for a lasting settlement.
However, the agreement collapsed last month, triggering another round of military exchanges that continued for nearly two weeks.
US President Donald Trump subsequently halted American bombardment as diplomatic efforts resumed to prevent another escalation.
Nevertheless, CENTCOM’s latest statement indicates that Washington continues enforcing its maritime blockade while maintaining significant naval forces in the region.
The continuing military deployments underscore the fragile security environment despite renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the US-Iran confrontation and preventing further disruption to regional shipping.
