WASHINGTON (Gray DC) – A U.S. naval blockade ordered by President Donald Trump has choked off most of Iran’s trade, Pentagon officials said Thursday. The operation began April 13 after Trump directed U.S. forces to block ships traveling to and from Iranian ports.
Military leaders have said the operation has disrupted roughly 90% of Iran’s maritime trade activity, part of a broader push to force Tehran back to the negotiating table.
On Thursday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Iran’s leadership to pursue diplomacy to bring about an end to the war.
“I pray you choose a deal, which is within your grasp. For the betterment of your country and betterment of the world,” he said.
In a Pentagon briefing, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine clarified the blockade applies broadly to vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports.
“This blockade applies to all ships regardless of nationality heading into or from Iranian ports,” he said. “The U.S. action is a blockade of the Iran’s ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Straight of Hormuz.”
U.S. forces have warned ships attempting to bypass the blockade with direct radio messages. According to the Pentagon, U.S. naval forces have successfully turned away 13 ships without using force.
“12 of which stayed inside the blockage line, one of which not depicted off to Eastern side turned around before even attempting it,” Caine said.
The update comes as reports indicate the U.S. is prepared to send up to 10,000 additional troops to the region, adding pressure as officials push for a diplomatic end to the war.
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