The United States has implemented a blockade of all Iranian ports and coastlines, as tension increases in the region. The measure, issued in an advisory via the Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC 016-26) on October 28, applies to all vessels regardless of flag or ownership.
Neutral vessels, carrying neutral cargo or in ballast, between neutral ports in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz may be subject to questioning, visit, and search to confirm their intentions regarding the blockade.
The latest US advisory said that neutral vessels should maintain a continuous listening watch on VHF CH16 and follow all directions from U.S. forces.
In its advisory, JMIC said it is sharing information for the awareness of owners, operators, and mariners. Specifically, it details U.S. military blockade operations in the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, and Arabian Sea.
“Due to the current geopolitical situation, vessels which do not need to transit the area are advised to remain well clear to avoid unnecessary delays to their voyage,” the notice said.
Vessels transiting this area are also advised to plan additional transit time to allow for increased traffic density and military blockade enforcement operations.
The US military told ships on Wednesday to be prepared to alter or stop their course and be ready to provide the following documents for review on request: port/customs clearance from LPOC, bill of lading (if laden), certificate of registry, signed/stamped letter of appointment (not an email) from agent at NPOC, receipts or signed contracts for provisions, bunkers, spare parts, repairs, and/or crew change at NPOC, terminal/port/berth booking confirmation for NPOC.
All documents, it said, must be signed and stamped and should be in pdf format.
