ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - The US military said Thursday that its blockade of Iranian ports is preventing more than $13 billion worth of Iranian oil from being transported as Washington continues economic pressure measures against Tehran amid heightened regional tensions.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that “more than 70 tankers” have been unable to enter or leave Iranian ports under the blockade, carrying a combined capacity of over 166 million barrels of oil.

“$13+ billion is not benefiting Iran’s leadership,” CENTCOM said in an infographic shared online.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Friday announced that the US is currently preventing over 70 tankers from accessing Iranian ports - Statement

"These commercial ships have the capacity to transport over 166 million barrels of Iranian oil worth an estimated $13 billion-plus" pic.twitter.com/Tc4PbmoKr7

— The New Region (@thenewregion) May 8, 2026

The military command added that the blockade “remains fully in effect,” stressing that “no ships are allowed in or out of Iranian ports, with enforcement operations extending across the Middle East and beyond.”

According to CENTCOM, the operation involves more than 15,000 troops, over 200 aircraft, and more than 20 warships.

The command also said that over 50 vessels have been redirected “to ensure compliance” with the blockade.

The infographic listed the assets involved in the mission, including aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, guided-missile destroyers, surveillance aircraft, unmanned aircraft, and rotary-wing aircraft.

US enforcement of the blockade, coupled with Iran's restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, have led to skirmishes that threaten the ongoing ceasefire and negotiation process.

In the late hours of Thursday local time, extending into early Friday, Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported an explosion at Bahman port on Qeshm Island in the Persian Gulf near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, describing it as “an exchange of fire between Iranian armed forces and the enemy.”

“US forces intercepted unprovoked Iranian attacks and responded with self-defense strikes,” CENTCOM said in response.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday said that Washington expects to receive an Iranian response to its latest negotiating proposal "today," adding, "I hope it’s a serious offer. I really do."