In a surprise move on 13 April, the US imposed a blockade on Iran and Iranian-linked vessels through its Central Command (CENTCOM), acting on an order from President Donald Trump. The blockade came in response to Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz to non-Iranian vessels since shortly after 28 February, later allowing limited third-party transit via the so-called ‘Tehran toll booth’ (MEES, 10 April).
Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announced details of the blockade on 16 April during a press briefing at the Pentagon on 16 April. He said it “applies to all ships regardless of nationality heading into or from Iranian ports,” adding that “enforcement will occur inside Iran’s territorial seas and in international waters.” (CONTINUED - 891 WORDS)
