U.S. Naval Blockade to Remain Until Iran-U.S. Hostilities Agreement Signed Friday

The U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain in effect until Friday, when representatives from the United States and Iran are expected to formally sign an agreement to end hostilities between the two nations. The blockade, which has been enforced by U.S. forces patrolling the Arabian Sea, will conclude upon completion of the signing ceremony. The Joint Maritime Information Center has advised shipmasters to comply with U.S. Navy orders and exercise caution during blockade enforcement actions to protect crew safety.

Iran and the U.S. reached an agreement on Saturday to implement a 60-day truce following hostilities that began on February 28 after Iranian attacks on commercial shipping. While the full text remains unpublished, the agreement is understood to include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that closed at the start of the conflict. President Donald Trump has indicated the strait will operate toll-free, reversing Iran's previous "Tehran tollbooth" arrangement that required ships to pay fees or provide information for alternative passage around Larak Island. The 60-day cessation of hostilities is intended to provide both countries time to negotiate more contentious issues, including Iran's nuclear program.

The blockade enforcement has resulted in significant casualties and international concern. The U.S. disabled nine ships as part of the blockade, including the MT Settebello on June 9, whose engine room was struck, resulting in the deaths of three Indian crew members. The Forward Seaman's Union of India has called for the U.S. to pay no less than $5 million to the families of each deceased seafarer, including a fourth Indian merchant mariner who died from a medical issue exacerbated by the blockade's restrictions on medical aid. Additionally, the U.S. has provided some protection to commercial vessels coordinating through Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping, offering aerial support for ships transiting near the Omani coastline.