The United States has imposed a maritime blockade on Iranian ports, citing evidence of state-sponsored economic terrorism, according to White House officials. The move restricts all commercial shipping to Iran’s major trade hubs and authorizes interdiction of vessels suspected of carrying sanctioned goods.
The Treasury Department identified Bandar Abbas and Chabahar ports as key nodes in alleged weapons smuggling networks supporting proxy groups in Yemen and Lebanon. Satellite imagery reviewed by analysts shows unusual military cargo movements at both locations in recent weeks.
“This is a calibrated response to Iran’s destabilizing activities,” said a National Security Council spokesperson speaking on condition of anonymity. The blockade follows months of failed negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program and comes days after attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman.
Regional experts warn the measures could backfire. “Blockading sovereign ports without UN approval sets a dangerous precedent,” said Middle East Institute scholar Alex Vatanka, noting similar actions preceded the 1991 Gulf War. Iranian state media has vowed “reciprocal measures” against U.S. interests.