US: US Navy Imposes Blockade on Iran's Coastline and Ports, Not the Strait of Hormuz

Washington (ANTARA) - The United States Navy has imposed a blockade on Iran’s coastline and ports, not on the Strait of Hormuz, said General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on Thursday.

“I must emphasise. This blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading to or from Iranian ports. This US action constitutes a blockade of Iranian ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz,” Caine stated during a press conference.

The general said the measure would extend to the territorial waters of the Islamic Republic of Iran as well as international waters in other areas of responsibility, such as the Pacific Ocean.

“Under Admiral Paparo’s command, we will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any ship attempting to provide material support to Iran. This includes dark fleet vessels transporting Iranian oil,” Caine added.

On 28 February, the US and Israel launched strikes against targets in Iran, including in Tehran, causing damage and civilian casualties. Iran subsequently responded by attacking Israeli territory and US military facilities in the Middle East.

Then, on 11 April, Iran and the US held talks in Islamabad after US President Donald Trump announced that he had reached an agreement with Tehran regarding a two-week ceasefire.

However, on 12 April, the head of the US delegation, Vice President JD Vance, stated that Iran and the US had failed to reach an agreement in those negotiations.

The US delegation returned to its country without an agreement.

Subsequently, Trump announced a blockade against all ships transiting to enter and exit Iranian ports on both sides of the Strait of Hormuz.