US Central Command redirected nine vessels and disabled one as part of an escalating blockade against Iran, the military confirmed. The operation marks a sharp increase in pressure on maritime traffic in the region, though officials have not detailed the specific targets or the type of vessels involved.
What the operation involved
According to CENTCOM, the nine redirected vessels were turned away from their intended routes. One vessel was disabled — a step that typically involves rendering a ship unable to move or operate, often through non-lethal means. The military did not say where the operation took place or whether any crew members were harmed.
The blockade escalation comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran over nuclear program negotiations and regional military activity. CENTCOM has not released a timeline for how long the measures will remain in place.
Market odds on Strait of Hormuz transit
A prediction market now puts the probability of a ship successfully transiting the Strait of Hormuz by July 31, 2026 at just 1.9%. The figure reflects traders' assessment that the blockade will severely restrict passage through the strategic waterway, through which about a fifth of the world's oil passes.
The low odds suggest continued disruption is expected for the foreseeable future. The market, which allows participants to bet on geopolitical events, has been tracking the likelihood of normal shipping resuming through the strait.
No further military actions have been announced. The next scheduled update from CENTCOM on the blockade is expected within the week.
