Since the start of the naval blockade of Iran, the US Army has redirected 31 vessels that were heading to or departing from Iranian ports, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported.
"US forces have directed 31 vessels to turn around or return to port," CENTCOM said in a statement on its X page.
U.S. forces have directed 31 vessels to turn around or return to port as part of the U.S. blockade against Iran. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/lG5ACEt7LR
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 23, 2026
On February 28, the United States and Israel launched a major military operation against Iran. Later, on April 7, US President Donald Trump announced a two-week mutual ceasefire with Tehran. According to Iranian officials, around 3,375 people were killed in Iran during the 40 days of conflict due to US and Israeli attacks.
On April 11, Iran and the United States held several rounds of talks in Islamabad, but both sides said they could not reach a long-term agreement because of ongoing differences.
On April 21, President Trump said on Truth Social that the US wanted to extend the ceasefire, which was about to end in a few hours. However, Iranian state media reported that Tehran does not accept the extension announced by Washington and will act according to its own interests.
On April 22, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, said that Iran is willing to restart talks with the US in Pakistan, but only if Washington lifts its naval blockade.
