United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Thursday that U.S. forces have ordered 31 vessels—mostly oil tankers—to turn back or head to port as part of the American blockade targeting Iran. Officials said most ships complied with these instructions after being intercepted, reflecting strong cooperation during enforcement operations.

The масштаб of the mission signals a major escalation in regional maritime security. CENTCOM revealed that the blockade involves over 10,000 U.S. personnel, 17 naval ships, and more than 100 aircraft. Tensions intensified in the Middle East after Iranian forces fired on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, capturing two of them. This incident marked a sharp rise in hostilities in the critical waterway, coming just a day after Donald Trump extended a ceasefire while maintaining the blockade.

At the same time, the Trump administration is pushing for more consistent diplomatic engagement from Tehran during the fragile truce. White House officials indicated that the president is seeking a unified response from Iranian leadership to U.S. efforts aimed at easing tensions. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that no fixed deadline has been set for the ceasefire extension, reflecting a cautious approach as discussions continue. However, she stressed that any long-term agreement would require Iran to relinquish its entire stockpile of enriched uranium.

Despite the temporary truce, the U.S. has made it clear that the blockade will remain in place until Iran presents a formal proposal and negotiations reach a clear resolution. Iran strongly criticized the move, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi calling the blockade an “act of war” and a violation of the ceasefire, warning that Tehran is prepared to resist what it views as coercive measures.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X@CENTCOM.