USS George H.W. Bush reroutes around Southern Africa amid Hormuz blockade: Report

A US aircraft carrier strike group sailed around Southern Africa to join a growing naval presence in the Arabian Sea following Washington’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report Monday.

The USS George H.W. Bush and its escorts are operating off the coast of Namibia after avoiding the route through the Mediterranean, USNI News reported, citing defense officials.

The alternative route bypasses the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, areas that have seen repeated attacks on shipping by Yemen’s Houthi group in recent years, the report said.

The US blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports officially took effect at 1400GMT on Monday.

In a statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the naval blockade would be enforced “impartially” against ships of all countries entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including those in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.