ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The US military said late Friday that it has allowed nearly 30 humanitarian aid ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, while redirecting, disabling or boarding many others as part of its blockade against Iran.
“As of July 31, CENTCOM has redirected 30 commercial vessels, disabled 2, and boarded 2 to ensure full compliance. The U.S. military has also permitted nearly 30 ships to pass through the blockade for humanitarian aid,” US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement on X.
CENTCOM, which oversees US troops based in the Middle East, also released a photo showing a US Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter “prepared” for flight aboard the USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112), which it said is supporting the blockade while operating in regional waters.
The maritime restrictions are part of a broader US campaign targeting Iran following heightened tensions in the region. Washington has said the measures are intended to increase pressure on Tehran by restricting maritime trade while maintaining exemptions for humanitarian shipments, including food, medicine and other essential supplies.
The blockade has raised concerns over the potential impact on commercial shipping and regional trade, particularly in and around the Gulf, a vital route for global energy exports. US officials have repeatedly said humanitarian assistance will continue to be allowed under established exemptions.
The US and Israel launched a massive aerial offensive on Iran late February. In retaliation, Iran targeted US interests and allies in the region. Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum in June to give space for a permanent ceasefire but the fragile deal ended after a month.
The US carried out a new wave of strikes against Iran on Thursday, resuming hostilities that had briefly paused on Friday following strikes and counterstrikes that had continued since July 8.
US President Donald Trump has ordered a new wave of strikes, which could last for a few days, reported The Wall Street Journal on Saturday.
