US intercepts 23 Iran-linked vessels during maritime blockade

The US Navy has intercepted 23 commercial vessels linked to Iran since the introduction of a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) in a post on X.

“Since commencement of the blockade, 23 ships have complied with direction from U.S. forces to turn around,” the statement said.

CENTCOM added that US military personnel have not boarded any of the vessels as part of the enforcement measures so far.

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal, citing US officials, reported that US Navy assault units deployed in the Hormuz area are preparing for potential boarding operations and possible seizure of oil tankers linked to Iran.

By Jeyhun Aghazada