US blockade curbs Iran-linked shipping as Hormuz traffic falters

The U.S.-led sea blockade in the Gulf of Oman appears to be squeezing Iran-linked or sanctioned ships, with several turning away or halting after crossing the Strait of Hormuz and overall traffic through the strait noticeably reduced; the enforcement follows a published rulebook allowing humanitarian shipments under inspections, but the operation has created uncertainty for shipowners and could press Iran economically unless exports resume, while Iran has warned of reciprocal blocking if the blockade remains in place.