WASHINGTON D.C April 19, 2026 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has released new images showing Sailors and Marines from the dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) actively conducting blockade operations in the Arabian Sea.
The operations form part of the broader U.S. naval blockade of all maritime traffic entering or exiting Iranian ports, which CENTCOM began enforcing on April 13, 2026, in line with a presidential directive following the collapse of U.S.-Iran peace talks. The blockade targets vessels of all nations attempting to access Iranian ports and coastal areas in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, while preserving freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz for non-Iranian traffic. Unauthorized vessels face interception, diversion, or capture.
USS Rushmore, part of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group (which also includes the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli and amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans), is supporting the mission alongside other U.S. naval assets, including the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group. More than 10,000 U.S. service members and over a dozen warships are involved in the ongoing enforcement effort across the region.
The four images shared by CENTCOM depict key aspects of the ship’s operations:
- A wide view of USS Rushmore underway in the Arabian Sea, with its large well deck open and personnel visible on the upper decks.
- A close-up of a crew member in flight gear and helmet standing on the flight deck at sunrise or sunset, with the sea and horizon in the background.
- Marines in camouflage on the ship’s deck preparing a small unmanned aerial system (drone) for operations, with some personnel armed and others observing nearby equipment.
- Flight deck crew in yellow vests directing a heavy-lift helicopter (marked “29”) during takeoff or landing operations.
CENTCOM has reported that the blockade has already halted significant maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports, with multiple vessels complying with orders to turn around since operations began. The command continues to monitor the area to maintain maritime security and enforce the restrictions.
This latest update from CENTCOM underscores the U.S. military’s commitment to the blockade amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments in the region.
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