The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has intensified its naval blockade against Iran, targeting a commercial cargo vessel in the Gulf of Oman. The M/V Huda, a St Kitts-flagged ship, was disabled after allegedly ignoring warnings and attempting to breach the blockade. A US military aircraft fired precision munitions at the vessel’s stern, disabling it. CENTCOM stated that the crew had been instructed to abandon the area before the strike.
In a related move, CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper announced the formation of Task Force Iron Gate on November 7. The task force, comprising around 20 civilian and military personnel, will focus on restricting Iran’s supply routes, particularly through land borders and the Caspian Sea. Based in Tampa, Florida, the team will work with US agencies to prevent the transport of advanced weapons, dual-use technologies, and sanctioned materials.
Cooper emphasized that the initiative aims to reinforce the naval blockade and further constrain Iran’s ability to finance terrorism and replenish its military. CENTCOM reported that the blockade has already prevented Iran from exporting over $25 billion worth of crude oil in recent months. Strict enforcement continues against all ships entering or departing Iranian ports.