US Central Command reports 82 commercial ships diverted under Iran blockade

US Central Command (CENTCOM) has reported that American forces have diverted 82 commercial vessels as part of an intensified maritime blockade to enforce an embargo on Iran. As of August 28, the operations have also included disabling three vessels and conducting boardings on two others to ensure compliance with US sanctions.

Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, described the blockade as “effective and strong,” stating that US forces have successfully prevented Iran from exporting oil by sea. While the blockade remains firmly in place, CENTCOM noted that at least 40 vessels were permitted to pass on humanitarian grounds.

In addition to the vessel diversions, US officials claimed that international shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz have been cleared of Iranian mines through operations involving naval units, special forces, and unmanned systems. The increased maritime presence is part of a broader strategic effort by the United States to escalate economic pressure on Tehran by restricting its ability to utilize international shipping lanes for trade and oil exports.