Watch | ‘Thank you for your cooperation’: US Navy escorts ships as blockade tightens

CENTCOM also said that within 72 hours of enforcement, 14 vessels had turned back after being directed to comply by US forces

As the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz continues, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Friday released footage showing the US Navy actively redirecting merchant vessels and enforcing restrictions on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports.

In a post shared on X, a sailor aboard the USS Michael Murphy (Warship 112) is seen contacting the “Motor Vessel Molly” and informing its crew that the ship will be escorted to its next port of call.

“Motor Vessel Molly, this is warship 112. We would be escorting you to next port. Thank for your cooperation,” the sailor can be heard saying in the video.

CENTCOM added in its post that US forces are prepared to continue the operation for as long as required.

In a separate update, CENTCOM said the enforcement effort involves more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and more than 100 aircraft operating across regional waters to restrict movement linked to Iran’s ports and coastline.

The statement read, “USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Arabian Sea as the United States blockades Iran's ports and coastline. U.S. forces are NOT blockading the Strait of Hormuz. More than 10,000 American service members, 12+ ships, and 100+ aircraft have enforced the blockade in regional waters, ensuring that no vessels violate the President's proclamation.”

CENTCOM also shared updates showing sailors aboard the USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119) conducting enforcement operations against commercial shipping.

It further highlighted operations from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the Arabian Sea.

The blockade follows US President Donald Trump’s statement that the US would begin restricting the Strait of Hormuz after negotiations with Iran in Pakistan failed last weekend. The measure came into effect on Monday at 7:30 pm IST. CENTCOM also stated that within 72 hours of enforcement, 14 vessels had turned back after being directed to comply by US forces.