Trump Moves to Choke Iran’s Ports Without Closing the World’s Oil Lifeline, CENTCOM Confirms

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) will begin enforcing a blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13 at 10 a.m. ET, according to an official announcement issued in line with a presidential proclamation.

The directive applies to all vessels, regardless of flag or ownership, operating in Iranian coastal waters, including ports in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

However, CENTCOM emphasized that the measure will not impede freedom of navigation for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz to or from non-Iranian ports, a critical distinction aimed at maintaining global energy flows.

“The blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman,” the CENTCOM articulated.

Officials said the operation will be enforced impartially and that commercial mariners will receive additional guidance through formal “Notice to Mariners” communications ahead of implementation.

Vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman and approaches to the Strait of Hormuz are being advised to monitor maritime broadcasts and maintain contact with U.S. naval forces on bridge-to-bridge VHF channel 16.

The move marks a significant escalation in maritime pressure on Iran amid ongoing regional tensions that have already disrupted shipping routes and heightened global energy market volatility.

Analysts note that while the Strait of Hormuz remains open, restricting access to Iranian ports could intensify economic strain on Tehran.

CENTCOM did not provide details on the duration of the blockade but indicated further operational updates will follow as conditions evolve in the region.

Shipping operators and energy traders are expected to closely monitor developments as enforcement begins, with maritime risk assessments likely to be revised in real time.

Insurance premiums for Gulf-bound cargoes could also fluctuate depending on the scope of enforcement and any Iranian response.

The situation remains fluid, with governments and commercial fleets awaiting further clarification from U.S. naval authorities in the coming hours and days ahead of scheduled rollout begins period.

“Enjoy the current pump figures. With the so-called ‘blockade’, Soon you’ll be nostalgic for $4–$5 gas,” wrote Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Parliament.

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