Clearwater Dynamics | Advisory: U.S. Military Blockade Operations in the Gulf, Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, and the Strait of Hormuz

2026-07-13 19:25:00	CW Alert 012- (Jul 26)	Indian Ocean	Advisory	Military	UKMTO
Date	Reference	Region	Category	Aggressors	Source
On 13 July 2026, the President of the United States announced a naval blockade against Iran. As of 2000Z on 14 July 2026, U.S. Central Command will begin enforcement of a naval blockade of all Iranian ports and Iranian coastal areas. All neutral vessels are hereby warned and have the period until enforcement begins to depart the blockaded area. The blockaded encompasses the entirety of the Iranian coastline to include but not limited to Iranian ports and oil terminals. The blockade applies to all vessel traffic, regardless of flag. Any vessel suspected of entering or departing the blockaded area without authorization is subject to interception, diversion, and capture. Non-compliant vessels may be legally compelled with force. The blockade will not impede neutral transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz to or from non-Iranian destinations. Neutral vessels may still be subject to the right of visit and search to determine the presence of contraband cargo or to ensure they are not intending to breach the blockade. Humanitarian shipments including food, medical supplies, and other goods essential for survival of the civilian populations will be permitted, subject to inspection. The exemption process for humanitarian shipments is described below.