BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 27. US Central Command (CENTCOM) says American forces are continuing to enforce the naval blockade against Iran, with 75 commercial vessels redirected as part of the operation in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
According to CENTCOM, US forces have so far redirected 75 commercial vessels, disabled three and boarded two others to ensure compliance with the blockade.
The latest figures indicate a further expansion of US maritime enforcement operations. CENTCOM reported on August 24 that 71 commercial vessels had been redirected, while three had been disabled and two boarded.
The blockade comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran and disruptions to commercial shipping around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime energy routes.
US forces have gradually increased the number of vessels affected by the enforcement operation. Earlier in August, CENTCOM reported 44 redirected vessels as of August 3 and 59 as of August 12.
Washington says the measures are aimed at enforcing its blockade against Iran, while Tehran has strongly criticised US military and economic pressure.
