WASHINGTON: The United States (US) will begin enforcing a maritime blockade on Iran from 2000 GMT on Tuesday (July 14), significantly escalating pressure on Tehran by restricting access to all of the country’s ports, oil terminals and coastal waters.
The announcement was made by the US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) in a maritime advisory issued late Monday.
According to the advisory, the blockade will apply to all commercial and non-commercial vessels, irrespective of their nationality or flag, seeking to enter or leave Iranian ports or coastal areas without authorisation.
JMIC warned that vessels suspected of violating the blockade could face interception and diversion, while those refusing to comply may be seized.
“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 advisory stated.
Despite the sweeping restrictions, the US clarified that neutral transit through the Strait of Hormuz will remain unaffected, provided vessels are travelling to or from destinations outside Iran. This is intended to minimise disruption to international shipping through one of the world’s busiest energy trade corridors.
The measure marks a major escalation in Washington’s campaign against Tehran and is expected to have significant implications for regional maritime security and global energy markets, given Iran’s strategic position along the Persian Gulf.
Shipping companies and commercial operators are likely to closely monitor developments as the blockade comes into force amid heightened tensions in the region.
