CENTCOM Says 59 Commercial Vessels Rerouted Since Start of Blockade on Iranian Ports

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said Wednesday that American forces have redirected 59 commercial vessels since the resumption of a naval blockade on vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports.

According to CENTCOM, the latest figure was recorded as of August 12, as U.S. forces continued enforcing restrictions on commercial shipping around Iran. CENTCOM said three vessels had also been disabled and two others boarded as part of the operation.

The United States resumed the naval blockade on July 14, targeting vessels heading to or departing from Iranian ports and coastal areas. U.S. authorities have said the measures were taken in response to attacks on commercial shipping and disruptions to navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

The number of redirected vessels has increased steadily in recent weeks. CENTCOM reported 48 redirected commercial vessels on August 6 and 55 by August 10, before reaching 59 by August 12.

The developments highlight the continuing disruption to commercial maritime traffic in the region, with shipping operators facing increased scrutiny and the possibility of vessels being diverted while attempting to reach Iranian ports.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical international shipping route, and continued military enforcement around Iranian ports has heightened concerns over the impact on regional trade, energy shipments and maritime security.

CENTCOM has said its forces will continue enforcing the blockade and monitoring commercial vessels operating in the affected waters.

Source: U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), as reported by regional and international media.