The U.S. Central Command has said it will enforce a blockade across parts of the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea east of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a note to seafarers seen on Monday.
The directive states that the measure will apply to all vessel traffic regardless of flag and will take effect at 1400 GMT.
Scope of the restricted maritime area
According to the notice seen by Reuters, the blockade will cover the entirety of the Iranian coastline, including ports and oil terminals.
The warning says any vessel entering or leaving the designated area without authorization may be subject to interception, diversion, or capture.
However, the notice clarifies that the blockade will not prevent neutral transit through the Strait of Hormuz for ships travelling to or from non-Iranian destinations.
Humanitarian shipments, including food, medical supplies, and other essential goods, will be allowed but may be subject to inspection.
Rising tensions in the region
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, which has already disrupted regional shipping routes.
Tehran has previously warned it could retaliate against ports in neighbouring Gulf states after weekend negotiations failed to produce a deal to end the war, leaving a fragile ceasefire under strain.
