Thirteen ships turned back from the Strait of Hormuz, a move that General Dan Caine described as a “wise decision,” as tensions in the region continued to rise. At the same briefing, Gen. Caine said the U.S. military will actively track and pursue “dark fleet” vessels that are helping Iran, even beyond the Persian Gulf.
The United States has also expanded its blockade. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command said forces can now board, search, and seize sanctioned ships under the blockade of Iranian ports. Earlier, the blockade only applied to ships travelling to and from Iran.
Meanwhile, mediators are trying to arrange a second round of U.S.-Iran talks and extend the ceasefire. Pakistan, which is playing a key role, said no date has been set yet. However, both sides have agreed in principle to meet. Officials say Vice President JD Vance is likely to lead the U.S. team again in the next round of talks.
More to follow…
