US military will target Iran-linked ships worldwide

Key Points:

• The U.S. military has expanded its blockade efforts against Iran to include stopping any ship linked to Tehran or suspected of carrying supplies like weapons, oil, metals, and electronics worldwide, not just near Iranian ports.
• Gen. Dan Caine emphasized targeting vessels that left Iranian ports before the blockade began, particularly in the Pacific, and warned that ships crossing the blockade risk being boarded or seized.
• The military released a broad list of contraband, including weapons as "absolute contraband" and items like oil, steel, and electronics as "conditional contraband" subject to seizure if intended for military use.
• Over 10,000 U.S. troops are enforcing the blockade, with 14 ships turning back in the first three days; the U.S. Navy is prepared to use force, including warning shots, to maintain the blockade.
• Adm. Brad Cooper highlighted the close cooperation between U.S. forces and regional allies in the Persian Gulf, noting the creation of a large air defense network and strong partnerships with local militaries.