The U.S. military says it has continued expanding maritime enforcement operations in the Middle East, with naval forces supporting a blockade targeting Iran while maintaining that commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains uninterrupted.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) also dismissed renewed Iranian claims that the strategic waterway has been closed, insisting international shipping continues to move through the corridor.
USS Michael Murphy Supports Ongoing Maritime Mission
CENTCOM released new details showing a U.S. Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter preparing for flight aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112), which is operating in regional waters as part of the U.S. maritime mission.
According to the command, the destroyer continues supporting enforcement activities designed to monitor commercial shipping and ensure vessels comply with U.S. measures directed at Iran.
Dozens of Commercial Ships Intercepted or Redirected
As of July 31, CENTCOM reported that U.S. forces had redirected 30 commercial vessels during blockade operations. Officials also said two vessels had been disabled and two others boarded as part of enforcement actions intended to verify compliance.
At the same time, the military emphasized that humanitarian shipments continue to be accommodated, stating that nearly 30 commercial vessels carrying humanitarian assistance have been authorized to transit through the operational area.
CENTCOM Rejects Iranian Claims Over Strait of Hormuz
In a separate statement, CENTCOM disputed repeated assertions by the Iranian government that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, describing those claims as false.
The U.S. command said the strategically important waterway remains open to commercial traffic and stressed that Iran does not exercise control over the international shipping route.
Commercial Shipping Continues Despite Regional Tensions
CENTCOM stated that thousands of commercial vessels have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz during the past four months, arguing that continued maritime traffic demonstrates the waterway remains accessible despite heightened regional tensions.
The command maintained that international vessel transit has continued without interruption while U.S. naval forces remain deployed across the region to support maritime security and enforce blockade measures.
