US Lifts Maritime Blockade near Strait of Hormuz after Peace Deal with Iran
The United States has lifted its blockade on all maritime traffic entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal waters, following the signing of a peace agreement between the two nations. The move was announced by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) on 18 June 2026.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, CENTCOM said: “Today, U.S. forces lifted the blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, in accordance with the President’s direction. American forces are not impeding the transit of vessels to or from Iranian ports. All U.S. military blockade enforcement efforts have ceased.”
The blockade had been in place as part of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran over the past several years. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and the blockade had raised concerns about energy security and regional stability.
The decision to lift the blockade comes after the United States and Iran signed a landmark peace deal on the sidelines of the G7 Summit 2026 in France. The agreement aims to de-escalate military tensions and address longstanding disputes, including Iran’s nuclear programme and regional influence.
While blockade operations have ended, CENTCOM stated that U.S. naval ships will remain in the region to monitor compliance. “Our great Naval Ships will remain in the general area to make sure that all aspects of the agreement are adhered to, obeyed and in full force and effect,” the statement added.
The lifting of the blockade is seen as a significant step towards normalising relations between the two countries. Analysts say it could lead to a reduction in oil price volatility and improved shipping safety in the region. However, experts caution that full implementation of the peace deal remains to be seen, and further negotiations are expected on issues such as sanctions relief and nuclear inspections.
The U.S. and Iran have had a fraught relationship since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with periods of confrontation and brief détentes. This peace deal represents the most substantial diplomatic breakthrough in decades, though its long-term success depends on mutual adherence to its terms.
