US Prepares to Seize Iran-Linked Ships as Marines Practice Maritime Raids

The Pentagon expands naval blockade of Iran, authorizing boarding and seizure of vessels worldwide

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:22pm by

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A dynamic, abstract painting of a naval ship in motion, with overlapping geometric shapes and fractured lines in shades of blue, teal, and grey, conveying a sense of urgency and military action.The U.S. Navy expands its blockade of Iran, preparing to board and seize Iran-linked ships worldwide to cut off the regime's oil revenue and access to weapons.Portland Today

The U.S. military is preparing to board and seize Iran-linked commercial ships in international waters as part of an expanded naval blockade aimed at cutting off Iran's oil revenue and access to weapons. Marines have been practicing maritime raid operations, including at night, aboard amphibious assault ships in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific regions.

Why it matters

The escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted global energy markets and raised the risk of military confrontation between the U.S. and Iran. By expanding the naval blockade beyond just Iranian ports, the U.S. is seeking to further squeeze Iran's economy and its ability to fund the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The details

The U.S. has warned that any ships, regardless of nationality, will be destroyed if they try to cross the Strait of Hormuz. Navy ships have already forced dozens of vessels to turn around after attempting to enter the strait. The Pentagon is now preparing to board and seize Iran-linked ships carrying oil or weapons, including those outside the Persian Gulf. This includes so-called 'dark fleet' ships that evade sanctions. Marines with maritime raid forces have been practicing boarding operations, including at night, aboard amphibious assault ships in the region.

  • On April 15, Marines conducted close-quarters training aboard the USS Tripoli amphibious assault ship in the Arabian Sea.
  • The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit has been in the Middle East for a few weeks and recently practiced maritime raid operations.
  • The 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit is en route to the Middle East from the Indo-Pacific area of operations.

The players

Gen. Dan Caine

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Donald Trump

Former President of the United States.

Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit

A Marine unit that conducted weapon function checks during a quick reaction force drill aboard the USS Portland.

Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

A Marine unit that conducted routine training aboard the USS Tripoli amphibious assault ship.

USS Tripoli (LHA 7)

An amphibious assault ship currently executing a mission to blockade ships entering and departing Iranian ports.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.