CENTCOM: 51 Commercial Vessels Redirected Since Iran Blockade Began
US Central Command says its forces have redirected 51 commercial vessels since July 14, while diplomatic efforts over the Strait of Hormuz continue.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that its forces have redirected the routes of 51 commercial vessels since the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas began on July 14, as diplomatic efforts over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continue.
On Saturday, CENTCOM said in a post on X that, as of Aug. 7, its forces had redirected 51 commercial vessels, disabled two, and boarded two vessels to ensure compliance.
The command said a US sailor was standing watch in the combat information center aboard the USS Mason (DDG 87) as the guided-missile destroyer operated in regional waters supporting the US blockade against Iranian ports and coastal areas.
Meanwhile, Reuters reported, citing a US official, that talks between Oman and Iran over the situation in the Strait of Hormuz had made good progress and that an agreement could be reached in the near future.
The official said the United States was prepared to lift its blockade of Iranian ports provided an agreement was signed guaranteeing the free movement of commercial vessels without obstruction.
The official added that US measures would depend on developments on the ground and Iran’s level of compliance with its commitments.
US President Donald Trump also told reporters at the White House that talks with Iran were continuing.
Meanwhile, Axios reported, citing a diplomat from one of the mediating countries, that Iranian negotiators were awaiting final approval from their country’s Supreme National Security Council for an understanding concerning maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
CENTCOM has stressed that the Strait of Hormuz must remain free and open to commercial vessels, particularly along routes close to the Omani coastline.
Tehran, meanwhile, insists that as a coastal state, Iran should have a role in regulating maritime traffic in the strategic waterway.
The developments come as diplomatic efforts continue alongside US military measures aimed at regulating commercial maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.