Key Facts
• On April 12, U.S. Central Command announced a maritime blockade on all ships entering or leaving Iranian ports.
• The blockade starts at 11 p.m. JST on April 13, per President Trump’s directive.
• The blockade covers all Iranian ports and coastal areas along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
• Ships traveling between non-Iranian ports through the Strait of Hormuz retain freedom of navigation.
• The Iranian Revolutionary Guard warned of strict measures if military vessels approach the Strait of Hormuz, citing ceasefire violations.
• Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared on state TV, “If they fight, we will fight,” signaling full resistance.
• Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have escalated sharply following these developments.
Summary
The U.S. military has announced a comprehensive maritime blockade on all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, effective from April 13 at 11 p.m. JST, following orders from President Trump. This blockade targets all Iranian ports along the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman but does not restrict ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz between non-Iranian ports. In response, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has threatened severe action against any military ships approaching the Strait, citing violations of ceasefire agreements. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf reinforced Iran’s stance by stating on national television that Iran is prepared to fight if provoked. These moves have significantly heightened tensions in the region, raising concerns over potential conflict escalation.
