Tankers Reroute After US Announces Iran Port Blockade
Two tankers linked to Iran left the Persian Gulf on Monday, while other vessels began avoiding the Strait of Hormuz, according to shipping data. The movements followed a US announcement that it would begin a blockade of Iranian ports.
The step came after weekend negotiations between Washington and Tehran collapsed. President Donald Trump said the US Navy would inspect ships heading to and from Iranian ports, although he added that passage through the strait itself should not be restricted.
The announcement slowed tanker traffic in the area. Iranian oil is typically shipped mainly to China and, more recently, to India.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it would begin enforcing the blockade on Monday afternoon and that vessels from all countries could be affected. Freedom of navigation through the strait for ships bound for non-Iranian ports is to be maintained.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned they would consider the approach of military vessels to the strait a violation of the ceasefire and would react harshly.