BreakingIranMedium confidencePersian Gulf / Gulf of Oman
US naval blockade of Iran begins April 13 at 10am ET
Monday, 13 April 2026 at 03:55 UTC · 3 sources
CENTCOM announces the US will blockade all exports from Iranian ports starting Monday, April 13th at 10:00am ET. The blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM forces will not impede freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports.
Key Details
Blockade starts April 13 at 10 a.m. ET
Applies to all ships entering/exiting Iranian ports
Pipeline alternatives: East-West Pipeline + Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline = 9 million bpd capacity
Strait of Hormuz capacity: 20 million bpd
Risk: Iran attacking pipelines could trigger US control of Bab el-Mandeb Strait
Cycle: Monday, 13 April 2026 at 01:54 UTC