US warns neutral ships may be stopped and searched in Gulf

The United States has implemented a blockade of all Iranian ports and coastlines, as tension increases in the region. The measure, issued in an advisory via the Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC 016-26) on October 28, applies to all vessels regardless of flag or ownership.

Neutral vessels, carrying neutral cargo or in ballast, between neutral ports in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz may be subject to questioning, visit, and search to confirm their intentions regarding the blockade.

The latest US advisory said that neutral vessels should maintain a continuous listening watch on VHF CH16 and follow all directions from U.S. forces.

In its advisory, JMIC said it is sharing information for the awareness of owners, operators, and mariners. Specifically, it details U.S. military blockade operations in the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, and Arabian Sea.

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