UK maritime agency cautions vessels amid US military operations near Iran

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency has warned that a military blockade on Iranian ports remains in force, restricting all inbound and outbound maritime traffic.

In an advisory, the Royal Navy-linked agency urged merchant and neutral vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to remain at least 30 nautical miles (56km) away from US military units and to respond promptly to any radio communications from American forces to avoid being misidentified as a threat.

The notice warned that enforcement measures could include disabling or destructive fire against vessels that fail to comply with blockade instructions.

It also advised ships against conducting ship-to-ship transfers in the area.

JMIC Advisory Note: 006-26 (Blockade Reminder)

Click here to view the full advisory note⤵️https://t.co/Hp4vuJbzue#MaritimeSecurity #MarSec pic.twitter.com/jgc9HPgz0S

— UKMTO Operations Centre (@UK_MTO) May 29, 2026