US Central Command says 83 ships diverted under Iran naval blockade

BAGHDAD, Iraq — U.S. Central Command said it has diverted 83 ships and disabled three others since reimposing a naval blockade on Iran, with two additional vessels still being pursued. The command said the operations have continued since the blockade was restarted and that maritime traffic is being monitored, with certain ships forced to change course. The United States launched the naval blockade against Iran in April 2026 after talks aimed at ending a war that began in February 2026 collapsed in Islamabad, according to the statement. Officials said the operations are being carried out under international law and are intended to secure sea lanes. No further details on the two ships still being tracked were immediately available.