US expands Iran blockade to target dark fleet ships worldwide

Published April 16, 2026 8:33am ET



The United States has broadened its naval blockade of Iran, authorizing the search and seizure of vessels tied to Tehran’s dark fleet anywhere in the world, according to a new update from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.

“In addition to enforcing the blockade, all Iranian vessels, vessels with active OFAC sanctions, and vessels suspected of carrying contraband are subject to belligerent right to visit and search,” USNAVCENT said. “These vessels, regardless of location, are subject to visit, board, search, and seizure.”

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