The U.S. Navy has implemented a full blockade of Iranian ports, with more than a dozen warships patrolling waters east of the Strait of Hormuz. Since the blockade began 48 hours ago, no Iran-linked ships have visibly left the region, according to U.S. authorities and vessel-tracking firms. Several vessels have stopped or slowed after exiting the strait into the Gulf of Oman.

Maritime data company Kpler reported that two ships with links to Iran and subject to U.S. sanctions appeared to have made U-turns. The Chinese tanker Rich Starry and the Ostria reversed course, while eight additional ships historically carrying Iranian cargo remained stationary or slowed down. The blockade has completely stopped commercial traffic to and from Iranian ports, Admiral Brad Cooper confirmed.

Global shipping remains severely disrupted, with traffic at a fraction of normal levels. German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd has six vessels and 150 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf, awaiting security guarantees and assurances their ships won't be targeted. The economic ripple effects continue as shipping companies remain unwilling to risk the crossing amid concerns about sea mines and uncertain U.S. exit protocols.