WASHINGTON — Following a months‑long naval blockade against Iran, the U.S. military is establishing a task force to strengthen efforts to limit Tehran’s transfer of advanced weapons systems and other sanctioned materials across its land borders and the Caspian Sea.
The task force’s creation — previously unreported — will be announced on Saturday by U.S. Central Command, according to a statement obtained by Reuters prior to publication.
Dubbed Task Force Iron Gate, it will be headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and will coordinate with other U.S. government agencies. In addition to monitoring weapons shipments, the task force will also target dual‑use items and illicit revenue streams.
“Enhancing CENTCOM’s collaboration with interagency partners will further constrain Iran’s capacity to fund terrorism, rebuild weapons facilities, and replenish its military,” Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of Central Command, said in a statement.
Central Command estimates that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting more than $25 billion in crude oil.