US Central Command: ‘We will use force’: New audio captures US Navy’s final warning to ships entering and departing Iranian ports amid blockade
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday released an audio message from US naval forces warning ships against trying to breach the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports.In a post on Twitter, the United States Central Command said that US naval vessels are actively patrolling the Gulf of Oman as part of the blockade. “US forces are present, alert, and ready to ensure compliance,” it said.
The audio message, reportedly broadcast to ships in the area, carries a warning: “The United States has declared a formal blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas… Do not attempt to break the blockade. Ships will be boarded for interdiction and seizure.”It further warned that ships should “turn around and be ready to be boarded,” adding, “If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force. The entire Navy of the United States stands ready to compel compliance.”
Blockade enforcement has intensified
This development comes as the US has increased enforcement of the naval blockade imposed earlier this week. A US warship, USS Spruance (DDG 111), recently forced an Iranian-flagged cargo ship to return after attempting to evade sanctions.Centcom said at least 10 ships had already been redirected, adding that “zero ships” had broken the blockade since the launch. The operation aims to shut down Iran’s maritime trade routes and effectively isolate its economy.The blockade extends to major waterways including the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, with the US military asserting control over shipping movements in and out of Iranian ports.The warning comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, while diplomatic efforts continue. Iran has threatened to block trade in the Gulf region if the blockade is not lifted, signaling further threats.Also, US President Donald Trump has indicated that the conflict may be “very close”, and negotiations may resume soon.