The United States military has announced it will begin enforcing a maritime blockade on Iran from 8:00 p.m. GMT on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, according to an advisory issued by the U.S. Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC).
The blockade will cover all Iranian ports, oil terminals and coastal areas, applying to all vessels regardless of their national flag.
Under the directive, any vessel suspected of entering or leaving the designated blockaded area without authorization may be intercepted, diverted or seized. The advisory also states that vessels failing to comply with instructions may be compelled by force where necessary.
Despite the restrictions, the JMIC clarified that neutral transit through the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian destinations will remain unaffected, allowing international shipping not bound for Iran to continue using the strategic waterway.
The announcement marks a significant escalation in U.S. measures against Iran and is expected to heighten tensions in the Gulf region, where the Strait of Hormuz remains a vital route for global oil exports.
