The U.S. military leaders warned that force will be used against ships violating the Iran blockade near the Strait of Hormuz, even as a fragile ceasefire remains in place, according to CBS News.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine said vessels ignoring the blockade will face military action. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth added that U.S. forces are prepared to escalate quickly if needed, stressing President Donald Trump’s goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
BREAKING: U.S. clarifies Iran operation is a port blockade, not a Strait of Hormuz shutdown
— Washington Eye (@washington_EY) April 16, 2026
General Caine says the U.S. action targets Iran’s ports and coastline, not the Strait of Hormuz itself a key distinction with major implications for global shipping and oil markets.… pic.twitter.com/dTo344rS3F
The blockade applies to all ships entering or leaving Iranian ports. U.S. Central Command confirmed that more than a dozen vessels have already turned back without confrontation.
Iran has threatened retaliation, including targeting U.S. ships and disrupting other key waterways. Meanwhile, negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain unresolved after recent talks failed.
Officials say uncertainty continues as the ceasefire nears expiry, with both sides signaling readiness for further talks or renewed conflict depending on developments.
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