U.S. Central Command issued a message to ships: If you attempt to break the blockade, we will use force.

The message was broadcast via the maritime VHF channel 16 and addressed to all vessels in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman. "The United States has announced an official blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas. This is a lawful action. All vessels are advised to immediately return to port if they are departing, and to cease transit toward Iran if that is your next destination port," the message states. They further warned vessels not to attempt to breach the blockade, which was established by U.S. forces in response to Iranian restrictions on passage through the Strait of Hormuz. "Vessels in transit to or from any Iranian port will be boarded for interception and seizure. Turn around or prepare to be boarded. If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force. The entire U.S. Navy is prepared to enforce compliance with the order," reads the message publicly released by CENTCOM.