At least two ships changed their destination data to reach Iranian ports via the Strait of Hormuz after the US imposed a blockade, as reported by British shipping media. The vessels modified their Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals while passing through the strait. Initially bound for Bandar Abbas, they switched to a more general designation of “PG Ports” before proceeding to their intended destination.
The adjustment in AIS messages by the Iran-flagged container ships could hinder US intelligence efforts to monitor vessels heading to Iranian ports. The US Central Command revealed that over 10,000 troops are involved in enforcing the blockade, targeting ships of all nationalities without discrimination. Despite the blockade, some commercial vessels have managed to cross the strait, according to maritime data firm Kpler.
President Donald Trump issued a warning that any Iranian ship approaching the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would face elimination. The US military presence in the region includes over 15 ships prepared to enforce the blockade. Following joint military strikes against Iran by the US and Israel, daily traffic in the strait has significantly decreased, with only a fraction of vessels compared to pre-conflict levels.
