The United States military has forced 27 Iranian ships to change course or return to Iranian ports since April 13, following the imposition of a naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian ports. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the development in a statement on social media, noting that the blockade was ordered by President Donald Trump and has been strictly enforced. The operation aims to halt all commercial maritime traffic entering or leaving Iranian ports, and so far, no vessel has breached the blockade.

CENTCOM Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla stated that the blockade is being conducted with caution and clarified that non-Iranian maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains unaffected. The blockade was imposed after peace talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad failed. Analysts cited in the report said the move is severely impacting Iran’s maritime trade, while Iran has condemned it as a “war crime” and warned of retaliation.

Experts view CENTCOM’s latest disclosure as part of a broader strategy to increase pressure on Iran while U.S. negotiators remain in Islamabad for a second round of discussions.