The United States is widening its campaign to choke off Iran's military supply networks, extending pressure beyond the Strait of Hormuz to the country's land borders and the Caspian Sea.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) says American forces are working "around the clock" to keep the strategic waterway open to commercial shipping while strictly enforcing what it calls an "ironclad naval blockade" against Iran.
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In a statement posted on X, CentCom said it was also working with other US government agencies to prevent Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from using overland routes and the Caspian Sea to move advanced weapons systems, "dual-use" technology, sanctioned materials and illicit revenue.
The announcement signals a broader US strategy: restrict not only Iran's ability to export oil and generate revenue, but also its capacity to import military equipment, obtain sensitive technology and rebuild its weapons industry.
The latest operation builds on the establishment of Task Force Iron Gate, announced on November 7.
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NOVEMBER 7–12, 2026
November 7 — CENTCOM announces Iron Gate.
Admiral Brad Cooper orders the establishment of the approximately 20-member task force in Tampa, Florida. Its mission is to disrupt Iranian weapons and sanctioned-material supply routes.
