U.S. enforces Iran blockade, warns ships

More than 10,000 U.S. troops are enforcing a naval blockade on Iran, warning ships they could face force if they attempt to breach it.

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World News

April 16, 2026 - 3:11 PM

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine speaks during a press briefing at the Pentagon, Thursday, April 16, 2026 in Washington. Photo by AP Photo/Kevin Wolf

WASHINGTON (AP) — More than 10,000 American troops are helping enforce the blockade on Iranian ports, and while no ships have yet been boarded, the U.S. military said Thursday that it is warning Iran-linked ships that it could fire warning shots or escalate to other force if they try to outrun the Navy.

In the first three days of the military action, 14 ships have turned around rather than confront the naval blockade, according to U.S. Central Command, which oversees the Iran war.

Some Iran-linked or sanctioned vessels that have left the Persian Gulf through the Strait…

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