Reuters: U.S. Military Notifies Mariners of Blockade in Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea
The U.S. Central Command announced a blockade in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea, east of the Strait of Hormuz, effective April 13, 14:00 GMT. The blockade applies to all vessels, with unauthorized entry risking interception or seizure. Neutral passage to non-Iranian destinations via the Strait of Hormuz will not be affected. The blockade covers Iran's entire coastline, including ports and oil terminals, but allows inspected humanitarian aid. This follows failed U.S.-Iran talks and Iranian threats of retaliation.
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- 📰 Published: April 13, 2026 at 21:52
- 🔍 Collected: April 13, 2026 at 22:01 (9 min after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 13, 2026 at 22:02 (0 min after Collected)
The U.S. Central Command issued a notice to mariners stating that a blockade will be implemented in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea, located east of the Strait of Hormuz. This measure, effective at 14:00 GMT on April 13, will apply to all vessels irrespective of their flag. The notice warns that any vessel attempting unauthorized entry into or exit from the blockade area may be intercepted, diverted, or seized. It clarifies that the blockade will not hinder "neutral" passage through the Strait of Hormuz to and from "non-Iranian destinations." The statement further specifies that the blockade encompasses the entire Iranian coastline, including its ports and oil terminals. However, the transport of humanitarian goods, such as food, medical supplies, and other necessities, will be permitted after inspection. This development occurs amidst heightened tensions, following the failure of U.S.-Iran talks over the past weekend to secure a peace agreement, which has put a fragile ceasefire at risk. Iran has also issued threats of retaliatory actions against ports in its Persian Gulf neighboring countries.