The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) in the Middle East has announced that, as part of a naval blockade operation, 51 commercial vessels linked to Iran have been intercepted and ordered to turn back.
According to the statement, a total of 51 ships attempting to enter or leave Iran have so far been stopped and instructed to halt their movement and return to their previous routes.
CENTCOM also stated that large-scale naval forces have been deployed in the region to enforce the blockade. These forces include two aircraft carriers, three large amphibious assault ships (with Marine battalions onboard), 12 guided-missile destroyers, and several minesweeping vessels.
The command said the objective is to restrict maritime trade to and from Iranian ports and strengthen control over naval traffic in the region.
