US Military to Launch Blockade of Iranian Ports on Monday, CENTCOM Says

The command says it will not block ships heading to non-Iranian ports, offering more guidance for mariners.

Cargo ships sail in the Arabian Gulf toward the Strait of Hormuz near the United Arab Emirates on March 19, 2026. AP Photo

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday that the U.S. military will launch its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz starting Monday, coming hours after President Donald Trump made the announcement.

A post from CENTCOM said the blockade operation will begin April 13, confirming a “blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports.”