According to US Central Command, American military forces have redirected 52 ships as part of a continuing naval blockade aimed at enforcing limitations on maritime traffic associated with Iranian ports. Iran maintains that it will permit 'safe, stable' passage only through its newly established protocols. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that the operation is designed to be temporary, focusing on assisting over 22,500 stranded sailors aboard approximately 1,550 vessels in the area. Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine noted that since the ceasefire commenced, Iran has launched attacks against commercial ships nine times and has captured two cargo vessels—actions that officials claim are just shy of provoking a full-scale conflict.
