US Reinstates Blockade as Tensions Flare Across Persian Gulf

The United States reinstated its naval blockade of Iranian ports on July 14 following Iran's attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz starting July 7. The move reignited tensions across the Persian Gulf, ultimately resulting in the collapse of the U.S.-Iran Memorandum of Understanding signed June 17.

The U.S. blockade has had a significant impact, with 18 commercial vessels redirected by U.S. forces as they tried to run the blockade. Two vessels that didn't comply were disabled, and two others were boarded to ensure total compliance.

Meanwhile, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis have declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabian ports on July 20, claiming to have attacked two tankers laden with Saudi crude oil in the Red Sea on July 22. The Houthi threats and attacks are prompting some tankers to reroute in the Red Sea.

According to Windward, transits of the Bab el Mandeb have fallen by 22% since the Houthi blockade.