UK agency reports notification of enforced maritime access limits at Iranian ports

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) on Monday said it has been informed that effective from 1400 UTC (1400GMT) on Monday, maritime access restrictions are being enforced affecting Iranian ports and coastal areas.

The "access restrictions apply without distinction to vessels of any flag engaging with Iranian ports, oil terminals, or coastal facilities," said the agency.

The note followed Sunday's statement by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), which said it will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports.

CENTCOM said that the blockade will be "enforced impartially against vessels of all nations" entering or leaving Iranian ports in the Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

Based on information currently available, the UKMTO said the restrictions encompass the entirety of the Iranian coastline, including ports and energy infrastructure.

"Transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz to or from non-Iranian destinations is not reported to be impeded by these measures; however, vessels may encounter military presence, directed communications, or right-of-visit procedures during passage," it said.

Neutral vessels currently within Iranian ports have been granted "a limited grace period" to depart, as will be specified in the notice to mariners.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday threatened to deal “severely” with any military vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to local media.