US Central Command says over 70 tankers blocked near Iranian ports
The U.S. military is blocking more than 70 tankers from entering or leaving Iranian ports, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Friday, Anadolu reported.
In a post on the social media platform X, CENTCOM stated that the commercial vessels are capable of transporting more than 166 million barrels of Iranian oil, valued at over $13 billion.
The U.S. has reportedly been enforcing a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz since April 13.
More than 15,000 troops, 200 aircraft, and 20 warships are involved in the operation, CENTCOM says.
The blockade has increased pressure on regional shipping and energy flows, as security risks remain elevated around the strategic waterway, a key chokepoint for global crude shipments.
CENTCOM’s latest figures indicate that a significant volume of Iran-linked oil cargo remains stranded, potentially adding pressure on Tehran’s export revenues.
The situation has also heightened concerns in global energy markets over supply disruptions, as ongoing tensions and maritime restrictions continue to affect tanker movements in the Gulf.
