US Expands Operation Targeting Iranian Tankers to International Waters

The United States (US) is expanding its pressure strategy against Iran, no longer just focusing on the area around the Strait of Hormuz, but extending it to various international waters. The US military will hunt for Iranian tankers and merchant vessels in multiple maritime regions, including areas outside the Middle East. This statement was delivered by US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine. He emphasized that military operations will be expanded more aggressively to pursue ships flying the Iranian flag, as well as other parties assisting in the distribution of Iranian oil, including so-called 'dark fleet' vessels. The operation is mentioned to cover a wide area, extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean. General Caine also stated that the US is not imposing a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, but rather on Iranian ports and coastlines. This statement is quoted from a Sputnik report on Friday, April 17, 2026. https://www.harianaceh.co.id/2026/04/17/as-akan-buru-kapal-kapal-tanker-iran-di-mana-pun-bukan-hanya-timur-tengah/