US Central Command continues strict enforcement of its naval blockade on Iranian ports as of mid-October 2026, redirecting over 130 commercial vessels, disabling non-compliant ships, and targeting IRGC-linked tankers to halt oil exports since the measure resumed in July after the prior June ceasefire MoU collapsed. The blockade, centered on the Strait of Hormuz approaches and Gulf of Oman, applies sustained economic pressure on Tehran’s revenues while indirect talks address sanctions relief, nuclear limits, and security guarantees. Recent developments include fresh US sanctions on shadow-fleet vessels, Iranian threats to shipping routes, and statements from both sides that November midterms are not dictating timelines. Traders monitor any signs of renewed diplomacy or compliance milestones that could trigger an official US announcement ending enforcement.