The US military will begin enforcing a maritime blockade on Iran from Tuesday, according to an advisory issued by the US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC). The measure is expected to cover all Iranian ports, oil terminals, and coastal waters while tightening restrictions on maritime traffic linked to the country.
According to the advisory, the blockade will take effect at 2000 GMT on July 14. It will apply to all vessels entering or leaving the designated blockaded areas, regardless of their national flag.
Blockade Covers Iranian Ports and Coastal Areas
The Joint Maritime Information Center said any vessel suspected of entering or departing the restricted zone without authorization could face interception, diversion, or seizure. It also warned that authorities may use force to compel compliance if ships fail to follow the blockade rules.
The advisory stated that the operation would target maritime traffic connected to Iran’s ports, oil terminals, and coastal regions. Officials said the measure is intended to strengthen maritime enforcement during the current period of heightened regional tensions.
Transit Through Hormuz to Continue
Despite the blockade, the Joint Maritime Information Center clarified that neutral commercial vessels traveling through the Strait of Hormuz to or from non-Iranian destinations would not be affected.
The center said lawful transit through the strategic waterway would continue without interference, provided vessels were not entering or departing Iranian ports or facilities.
The announcement comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East and follows a series of military exchanges between the United States and Iran.
The latest measure is expected to increase security monitoring across one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes while allowing international commercial traffic bound for non-Iranian destinations to continue its passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
