U.S. Navy Shares Audio Of Sailor Diverting Merchant Ship In Gulf Of Oman While Enforcing Blockade

The United States Navy has diverted a merchant vessel in the Gulf of Oman as part of its ongoing enforcement of restrictions on ships linked to Iranian ports, according to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM).

In a statement issued on 17 April, CENTCOM said the move was taken to ensure that vessels comply with the current measures targeting ships entering or leaving Iran.

CENTCOM also shared audio and video from the guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112). The footage, captured by the ship’s helicopter, shows a commercial vessel being monitored and contacted while sailing in the Gulf of Oman.

The audio includes communication between US sailors and the vessel, with the crew responding and following instructions. The exchange appeared calm and professional, with the vessel cooperating during the diversion.

Audioof a Sailor aboard USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112), with video from the guided-missile destroyer’s embarked helicopter flying over the Gulf of Oman, as the U.S. Navy diverts a merchant vessel while enforcing the blockade on ships entering or departing Iranian ports. U.S.… pic.twitter.com/10QxlEoGkk

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 16, 2026

In another update, CENTCOM released images of sailors aboard USS Delbert D. Black (DDG-119) standing watch as part of the same operation.

US officials have clarified that the operation does not involve a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.

Instead, the focus remains on restricting vessels entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal regions.

According to CENTCOM, commercial shipping not bound for Iran continues to transit freely through regional waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman.

The operation involves a large deployment of US military assets. According to CENTCOM, more than 10,000 personnel, over a dozen naval vessels, and more than 100 aircraft are currently involved.

Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119) stand watch as U.S. forces remain vigilant and enforce the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports and coastal areas. pic.twitter.com/oHSq4RhiVd

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 17, 2026

The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is also operating in the Arabian Sea as part of the effort.

US forces are actively monitoring key shipping routes and are authorised to intercept, divert, or take further action against vessels that do not comply with the restrictions.

The enforcement measures began on 13 April. By 15 April, CENTCOM said that at least ten vessels had already been turned back, and no ships had managed to pass through the restricted routes linked to Iranian ports.

US authorities have warned that any vessel attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports without approval could be intercepted, diverted, or even seized.

However, details about the latest vessel that was diverted, including where it was coming from or heading to, have not been released.

CENTCOM said US forces will continue the operation for as long as needed. Officials added that the measures are being carried out under directives issued by President Donald Trump.

References: US Centcom, News18