WASHINGTON, April 16: More than 10,000 US troops are involved in enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports, the US military said, warning that ships attempting to evade it could face warning shots, interception, or boarding.
Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said 13 vessels have already turned back rather than challenge the blockade, which is being enforced in Iranian territorial waters and international waters, but not in the Strait of Hormuz.
He said vessels approaching are first issued warnings before any escalation, with “pre-planned tactics” in place to bring naval forces alongside or board ships if necessary.
Shipping data suggests some Iran-linked vessels have changed course, turned off tracking systems, or returned toward Iranian waters to avoid confrontation.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said less than 10% of US naval power is being used, with 16 warships deployed in the Middle East, supported by surveillance, refuelling, and intelligence assets. He added that global US forces may also target ships linked to Iranian oil trade. (AP)
