Washington Intensifies "Operation Freedom" to Intercept Ships, Arabian Sea

The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush crossed the Arabian Sea in May 2026 to support the blockade. Central Command released in Spring 2026 footage of aerial and maritime surveillance operations. Mid-May 2026 reports confirmed the continued directing of ships to return to ports since last April. The 2026 field movement reflects Washington's determination to zero out Iranian exports.