US establishes task force to expand blockade on Iran to land routes

CENTCOM announced Task Force Iron Gate to disrupt Iran's land supply routes for weapons and dual-use goods, operating from Tampa, Florida. The move follows reports of progress in US-Iran talks mediated by Qatar.

The US military is establishing a new task force named 'Iron Gate' to expand the blockade on Iran to land trade and the Caspian Sea, alongside reports of possible progress in negotiations between Washington and Tehran mediated by Qatar. The force, operating from its base in Tampa, Florida, will coordinate with additional US agencies and focus on advanced weapons systems, dual-use goods, and illegal revenue sources. The announcement is expected to be published later today by CENTCOM. Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, stated that the move will further limit Iran's ability to finance terrorism and replenish its military equipment. So far, the naval blockade has prevented Iranian crude oil exports worth over $25 billion.