In a stern announcement, the United States military issued a final warning to maritime vessels, declaring that any breach of the comprehensive blockade on Iran’s ports would be met with the full might of the US Navy, as revealed by recently released audio recordings.
Shared via social media by US Central Command, the message emphasized the serious repercussions for any ships attempting to enter or exit the ports of the Islamic Republic, following the enforcement of the American blockade that commenced on Monday morning.
The broadcast stated, “The US has established a formal blockade of Iranian ports and coastal regions, labeling this a strategic move despite its controversial nature.”
US Central Command further instructed, “All vessels are urged to return to port immediately if they are departing and to cease any transit towards Iran to avoid confrontation.”
The message continued, “Ships approaching or leaving Iranian ports will be subject to boarding for inspection and possible seizure. Heed this warning and prepare to be boarded if necessary.”
The warning concluded with a resolute statement: “Non-compliance with this blockade will result in the use of force. The entire United States Navy stands ready to ensure adherence to this directive.”
CENTCOM has deployed more than two dozen warships and 10,000 service members to enforce the blockade along the Gulf of Oman, intercepting Iranian-linked ships that cross through the Strait of Hormuz.
As of Tuesday afternoon, CENTCOM said 10 vessels were forced to make a U-turn in the face of the US blockade, with zero ships breaking through.
Among the ships was an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel that left port in Bandar Abbas, which was caught by a US destroyer in the Gulf of Oman.
“The guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) successfully redirected the vessel, which is heading back to Iran,” CENTCOM said.
Only ships leaving and dealing with Iran are subject to the blockade, according to CENTCOM.
