US Blockade in the Strait of Hormuz Forces 21 Ships to Turn Back
Even though Iran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz has been reopened for commercial shipping, the United States (US) continues to enforce a naval blockade against Iranian ports. United States Central Command (CENTCOM) revealed that since the blockade began on April 13, their forces have turned back 21 ships attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports, as reported by Anadolu Agency on Saturday, April 18, 2026. This operation involves the guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy patrolling the Arabian Sea.
The blockade was imposed amidst the escalation of conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, which has been ongoing since late February. The impact was immediately felt in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route through which about 20 percent of the world's oil supply passes daily, triggering a spike in oil prices as well as increased shipping and insurance costs. Iran stated that the Strait of Hormuz has been opened with restrictions on certain lanes as part of a 10-day ceasefire agreement in Lebanon.
US President Donald Trump emphasized that the blockade will not be halted in the near future until an agreement with Iran is reached. This situation keeps the Strait of Hormuz as a global geopolitical hotspot, with conflicting statements from the US and Iran indicating that the risk of disruption to global trade remains high.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/04/