The United States has initiated a blockade around Iranian ports, effective from 1400 GMT, warning that all vessels entering the area without authorization will face interception, diversion, and capture. This blockade extends across the Gulf of Oman and parts of the Arabian Sea, but the US has stated it will not obstruct neutral transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The move comes amid escalating tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year. The International Maritime Organization has criticized the blockade, asserting that international law protects the right of innocent passage through straits used for international transit. Iran has responded with threats to consider any blockade enforcement an act of piracy, heightening tensions in a critical energy corridor. Analysts suggest that the blockade aims to cut Iran's oil revenues and exert pressure on its primary customers, particularly China, to influence Tehran's actions regarding the Strait of Hormuz.