US Navy warns merchant ships: Blockade breaches will be met with force

US Navy warships have begun issuing direct warnings to merchant vessels operating in and around Iran, stating they are prepared to board ships and use force to ensure compliance with a blockade targeting vessels trading with the country.

A Navy radio transmission, shared publicly by US Central Command, stated: “Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and seizure transiting to or from Iranian port.” A military official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the ongoing operation, confirmed that this message is currently being broadcast to all ships 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

“If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force,” the radio message added.

By Jeyhun Aghazada