(SANTCOM): Change of course for 70 commercial ships since the start of the blockade on Iranian ports

Washington, Aug 23 (KUNA) – U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Sunday that it had rerouted 70 commercial vessels since the commencement of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. In a statement, CENTCOM said that “U.S. forces have, as of August 23, rerouted 70 commercial vessels, halted three vessels, and inspected two others to ensure full compliance with the sanctions imposed on Iran.” The statement affirmed that U.S. forces have been rigorously enforcing the naval blockade on Iranian ports since mid-July. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously stated that the naval blockade on Iran is an “iron wall” and that Tehran has “no means” to counter it, as Washington prepares to impose further stringent economic pressure on Tehran. It is worth noting that U.S. forces resumed the naval blockade on ships bound for Iranian ports and coastal areas, or departing from them, starting July 14, in response to attacks on commercial vessels and the obstruction of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. (End) A.M.M. / M.A.H.A.