(SANTCOM): 71 commercial ships rerouted since the start of the blockade on Iranian ports

Washington, Aug 24 (KUNA) -- The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Monday that it had rerouted 71 commercial vessels since the commencement of the U.S. embargo on Iranian ports. In a statement, CENTCOM said, “U.S. forces have, as of August 24, rerouted 71 commercial vessels, halted three vessels, and inspected two vessels to ensure full compliance with the embargo imposed on Iran.” The statement added that its forces had allowed the passage of 40 vessels on humanitarian grounds, while reaffirming that U.S. forces have been strictly enforcing the naval embargo on Iranian ports since mid-July. Earlier on Monday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the launch of the harshest economic sanctions in history against Iran, targeting the sectors of digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and maritime shipping. Bessent said in a press conference, “We are launching a devastating economic attack targeting Iran’s financial links around the world.” (End) A.M.M. / M.A.H.A.