CENTCOM redirects 70 vessels, disables four in Hormuz blockade

U.S. Central Command reported that it has redirected 70 vessels and disabled four since a naval blockade of Iranian ports began in April 2026 in the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM said the measures are part of enforcement actions tied to wider U.S. military operations following strikes on Iranian nuclear sites earlier this year. The blockade aims to limit Iran’s maritime capabilities while allowing non-Iranian traffic to transit the Strait.

About 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments move through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for energy supplies.

CENTCOM described the interdictions and reroutings as targeted actions against vessels it assessed could support Iranian military logistics or operations. The report did not list vessel names or provide details on the methods used to disable the four vessels.

Prediction markets have moved after the CENTCOM update. The market titled “Trump’s Hormuz Blockade Announcement” shows a 25.5% probability that a U.S. announcement lifting the blockade will occur by May 31, up from 22% in the previous 24 hours and down from about 50% a week earlier.

A separate market tracking a possible restart of an operation labeled “Project Freedom” shows a 2.8% probability for a May 15 restart and a 38.5% probability for a May 31 restart.

Market analysts classify the CENTCOM report as having high impact on expectations that the blockade will remain in place through late May.

Developments to watch include any public statements by former President Donald Trump or by U.S. Central Command about the blockade’s status, diplomatic activity in Islamabad, and moves by other navies asserting navigation rights in the area, including statements from China.

Further naval engagements, interceptions or official policy announcements will indicate whether the blockade continues into late May or whether U.S. forces change their posture.