The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has released an audio message capturing a warning issued by US naval forces to vessels attempting to enter or exit Iranian ports amid an ongoing blockade.
Sharing the update on X, CENTCOM said US naval ships are actively patrolling the Gulf of Oman as part of the operation. "US forces are present, vigilant, and ready to ensure compliance," it said.
Per The Times of India, the audio message, reportedly broadcast to ships in the region, delivers a clear directive: "The US has announced a formal blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas… Do not attempt to breach the blockade. Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and seizure."
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Direct warning to vessels
The message goes further, instructing ships to "turn around and prepare to be boarded", while issuing a stern caution: "If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force. The whole of the United States Navy is ready to force compliance."
US naval vessels continue to maintain a visible presence in the Gulf of Oman, reinforcing the blockade and monitoring maritime movement in the region.
U.S. naval vessels are on patrol in the Gulf of Oman as CENTCOM continues to execute a U.S. blockade on ships entering and departing Iranian ports. U.S. forces are present, vigilant, and ready to ensure compliance. pic.twitter.com/dnHR2oz0ZN
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 15, 2026
Blockade enforcement intensifies
The development comes as the US steps up enforcement of the naval blockade imposed earlier this week. A US warship, USS Spruance (DDG-111), recently intercepted an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel and forced it to turn back after it attempted to bypass restrictions.
According to CENTCOM, at least 10 vessels have already been redirected, with "zero ships" breaching the blockade since it began. The operation is aimed at cutting off maritime trade routes linked to Iran.
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Strategic waterways under watch
The blockade spans key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman. US forces are asserting control over shipping traffic moving in and out of Iranian ports across these critical areas.
The situation comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Iran has warned it could halt trade in the Gulf if the blockade continues, raising concerns of further escalation.
At the same time, Donald Trump has suggested that the conflict could be "very close to over", with the possibility of talks resuming soon.
