The United States has officially lifted its maritime blockade on vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal waters, marking a significant step in the implementation of a newly signed agreement between the US and Iran aimed at reducing tensions and restoring regional stability.
In a statement posted on X, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that all blockade enforcement operations have ceased in accordance with directives from US President Donald Trump. CENTCOM stated that American forces are no longer impeding maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports, allowing commercial shipping to resume normal operations.
Despite the lifting of the blockade, US naval assets will remain deployed in the region to monitor compliance with the agreement and ensure that all parties adhere to its provisions.
The move follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, launching a 60-day negotiation process focused on ending hostilities, reopening critical maritime routes, easing sanctions, and addressing broader security concerns, including Iran’s future military capabilities.
US Vice President JD Vance confirmed that the formal negotiation period began on June 18, one day after the framework agreement was signed. He described the early impact of the agreement as positive, highlighting the restoration of shipping activity through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
According to Vance, more than 12.5 million barrels of oil transited the Strait of Hormuz overnight, representing the highest daily volume recorded since the onset of the conflict. He also noted that global energy markets had responded favorably, with oil prices declining toward pre-conflict levels and US gasoline prices falling below USD 4 per gallon.
The easing of maritime restrictions is expected to support global trade flows and energy supplies, while the ongoing negotiations could pave the way for a broader diplomatic settlement between the two long-standing rivals.
