The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Tuesday that as of September 15, they had directed 103 commercial vessels to implement a blockade against Iran. This action was taken to ensure compliance with trade restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Details of the Blockade and Naval Operations
According to the information provided, these vessels have been secured as part of security measures in the Arabian Sea. Images released from a U.S. Navy helicopter that took off from the USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) depicted this operation. CENTCOM stated in a statement: "An MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter has taken off from the flight deck of the USS Rafael Peralta to support the U.S. blockade in the Arabian Sea."
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War Costs and Regional Developments
This blockade continues as a report from the U.S. Congressional Budget Office indicates that the costs of the war with Iran for the Department of Defense are expected to reach approximately $38 billion by August 1, 2026. The report shows that monthly war costs may rise to $3 billion if the intensity of the conflicts reaches levels similar to those in July.
Additionally, these developments come as senior military commanders from the United States, Israel, and seven Arab countries gathered last week in a private meeting in Germany to discuss the ongoing war with Iran and heightened security in the Middle East. This gathering was informally organized by CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, and none of the participating governments publicly announced it.
During this meeting, Admiral Cooper assured the commanders that U.S. military forces have no plans to withdraw from the region, despite ongoing Iranian attacks on American bases. He also provided the attendees with explanations regarding Washington's strategies to increase maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, is scheduled to visit China on September 16 to meet with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. This visit comes ahead of the anticipated trip of Chinese President Xi Jinping to the United States on September 24.
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