‘If the blockade is broken then there will be action…’, American soldier points machine gun at ship near Hormuz

Amidst the increasing tension in the Middle East, a new video has surfaced, which has made the seriousness of the situation even more clear. In this footage released by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the US military can be seen enforcing a strict blockade in the sea around Iran. The video shows how American forces are deployed with full force to stop and warn the ships.

In the video released, a machine gunner deployed from a helicopter is seen ordering a cargo ship to return. Along with this, another American soldier is seen standing aiming towards the ship with a heavy weapon. A clear voice is heard on the radio – This is an American warship and you are entering the military blockade area. Ships are warned that if they approach or try to leave an Iranian port, they will be inspected. A warning was also given of use of force if rules were broken.

Since the commencement of the blockade against ships entering or exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, US forces have directed 27 vessels to turn around or return to an Iranian port. pic.twitter.com/G8dl96wN4H

— US Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 20, 2026

27 ships were returned

According to CENTCOM, so far at least 27 ships have been forced to turn back or change their routes during this military blockade. The information given on social media platform X said that strict surveillance is being maintained around Iranian ports. Any ship that tries to enter this area has to first undergo inspection.

Action on ship going to Iran

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, the US Army took action on a ship heading towards Bandar Abbas of Iran. According to the report, after the skirmish, American Marines boarded the ship and took it under control. In the video released, it is clearly visible that the Marines land on the ship from the helicopter and carry out the entire operation rapidly. This action is said to be taken for security reasons.

Suspicion of suspicious material in the ship

Sources related to maritime security say that this ship was suspected to contain material which could be used in military purposes. However, Iran has completely denied these allegations. The Iranian side says that the ship was coming from China and this action of America is tantamount to “armed piracy”. Iran also said that it considers this incident as open aggression and is ready to respond to it. However, considering the citizens and their families present on the ship, he has asked for restraint for the time being.

China expressed concern

China has also expressed concern over this entire incident. China, which imports crude oil from Iran, has appealed for normalization of the situation. President Xi Jinping talked about normalizing the movement of ships in the Strait of Hormuz and urged all parties to find a solution through dialogue.

Trump’s new warning

Amidst the tension, Donald Trump has also adopted a tough stance. He warned that if Iran does not accept American demands, America could target its vital infrastructure such as bridges and power plants. Responding to this, Iran also warned that if such an attack happens, it can target energy and water facilities in the countries of the Gulf region.