The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports starting at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) on April 13, 2024, according to an official announcement consistent with the U.S. President's statement.
This directive applies to all vessels, regardless of nationality or ownership, operating in Iran's coastal waters, including ports in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
The US is tightening its blockade of Iranian ports, according to a new announcement from CENTCOM.
However, CENTCOM stressed that this measure would not hinder the freedom of navigation for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz to or from non-Iranian ports. This is particularly important to ensure the uninterrupted flow of global energy.
"The blockade will be implemented objectively on all vessels from all countries entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas, including Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman," CENTCOM said .
Officials said the operation would be conducted fairly for all commercial vessels, and crews would receive additional guidance through official “Communications to Seafarers” channels before the lockdown begins.
Ships operating in the Gulf of Oman and the area near the Strait of Hormuz are advised to continuously monitor maritime information and maintain communication with the U.S. Navy via VHF channel 16.
This move marks a significant escalation of maritime pressure on Iran amid regional tensions, with many shipping lanes already disrupted and global energy markets becoming increasingly unstable.
Analysts suggest that even though the Strait of Hormuz remains open, restricting access to Iranian ports could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran.
CENTCOM has not yet announced a specific duration for the lockdown order, but said it will continue to update information depending on the actual situation in the area.
Shipping companies and energy businesses are expected to closely monitor developments once this order takes effect, and maritime risk assessments may be adjusted to reflect actual changes.
Insurance premiums for shipments to the Gulf can also fluctuate, depending on the level of enforcement and response from Iran.
The situation remains constantly changing, with governments and commercial shipping fleets awaiting clearer information from the U.S. Navy in the coming hours and days before a formal blockade is implemented.
“Enjoy the current gasoline prices. When the real ‘lockdown’ comes into effect, you will remember the time when gasoline was only $4–5 per liter,” wrote Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Parliament of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
