US says 78 commercial ships redirected amid blockade of Iranian ports

The number of American military vessels redirected since the beginning of the blockade of Iran has increased to 78, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement, Report informs.

"As of May 16, 78 commercial ships have been redirected, and 4 have been disabled to ensure compliance," it said on X.

The US began a naval blockade of Iran on April 13. CENTCOM said it will block all ships heading to the ports of the Islamic Republic, as well as trying to depart from its shores.