US Central Command says 17 commercial ships redirected in Iran blockade operation

U.S. Central Command said Monday that 17 commercial ships were redirected as part of its blockade measures against Iran. Two of the vessels were prevented from moving, while two others were inspected, the command said, adding that the actions ensured compliance with sanctions. CENTCOM said the operation was carried out with the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., a U.S. Navy warship on patrol in the Arabian Sea. The vessel was deployed to the region to support the blockade imposed on Iran, according to the command. The command said the maritime activity was aimed at controlling ship traffic and enforcing sanctions. No further details on the vessels' flags, cargoes or ports of origin were immediately available.