The US Navy has detained 65 merchant ships heading to or from Iranian ports since the blockade began in the Strait of Hormuz.
elchi reports that this was stated in a post on the “X” social media account of the US Central Command (CENTCOM) in the Middle East.
“The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) continues its operations in the Arabian Sea, including the enforcement of the US naval blockade against Iran. To date, CENTCOM forces have diverted 65 merchant vessels and disabled four ships to prevent them from entering or leaving Iranian ports,” the statement noted.
It should be recalled that on February 28, the US and Israel launched a military operation against Iran by conducting airstrikes on a number of cities. In response, Iran launched missile strikes on Israeli territory and attacked US military bases in Persian Gulf countries.
On the night of April 8, 2026, Iran, the US, and their allies agreed to a two-week ceasefire, which was later extended indefinitely by White House leader Donald Trump. On April 11–12, negotiations were held between Iran and the US in Islamabad with the mediation of Pakistan. The discussions remained inconclusive.
As a means of pressure on Tehran, the US announced a blockade of Iranian ports and passage through the Strait of Hormuz. In turn, Iran announced that the Strait of Hormuz was closed to ships heading to Persian Gulf countries. The situation in the region has caused a global energy crisis.