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Jun 18, 2026 Major2
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US Military Lifts Naval Blockade of Iran Following Presidential Accord
The U.S. Central Command announced the lifting of its naval blockade on Iranian ports on June 18, 2026, following a June 17 memorandum of understanding signed by the U.S. and Iranian presidents. The blockade will be completely removed within 30 days, though U.S. naval vessels will remain in the region to ensure compliance.
Quick Facts
Who
U.S. Central Command
What
Lifted naval blockade on Iranian ports and coastal regions
When
June 17, 2026 - memorandum signed
Where
Iranian ports
- Lifted naval blockade on Iranian ports and coastal regions
- Ceased all military blockade operations
- Signed memorandum of understanding
- Committed to full blockade removal within 30 days
- U.S. Central Command
The United States Central Command announced on June 18, 2026, that it has lifted its naval blockade on all maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports and coastal regions. The military confirmed that U.S. forces are no longer obstructing vessels transiting to Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, and that all military blockade operations have ceased. However, U.S. Navy vessels will continue to maintain a presence in the region to ensure compliance and full implementation of the agreement.
The blockade removal follows a diplomatic development on June 17, when the presidents of the United States and Iran remotely signed a memorandum of understanding. According to the agreement, the United States committed to immediately begin lifting the naval blockade and remove any interference or obstruction of Iranian maritime traffic. The accord specifies that the blockade will be completely lifted within 30 days of the memorandum's signing.
The statement from U.S. Central Command emphasized that while military enforcement actions have concluded, American naval assets will remain stationed in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman region to monitor adherence to all terms of the understanding and ensure the agreement's full effectiveness. This continued presence reflects ongoing international engagement in one of the world's most strategically significant maritime zones.
Why This Matters
This accord marks a significant shift in U.S.-Iran relations, potentially reducing regional tensions and reopening critical maritime trade routes. For businesses and governments, the lifting of the blockade enables resumed commerce and shipping through the strategically vital Persian Gulf, with implications for global oil markets and supply chains. The continued U.S. naval presence signals both commitment to stability and oversight of implementation—critical information for risk assessment in Middle Eastern operations.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WireU.S. and Iranian presidents remotely sign memorandum of understanding on maritime blockade
Jun 18, 2026
WireU.S. Central Command announces lifting of naval blockade on Iranian ports
Jul 18, 2026
WireComplete blockade removal deadline (30 days after June 18)