Following months of a naval blockade targeting Iran, the US military is establishing a new task force to strengthen Washington’s efforts to restrict Tehran’s movement of advanced weapons systems and other sanctioned materials across its land borders and the Caspian Sea.
The task force, which had not been previously reported, is expected to be announced later Saturday by US Central Command, according to a statement reviewed ahead of its release.
Task Force Iron Gate to Be Based in Florida
The new unit, named Task Force Iron Gate, will be headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and will coordinate its activities with other US government agencies.
In addition to monitoring the movement of weapons, the task force will focus on dual-use materials and illicit revenue streams.
“Strengthening CENTCOM’s collaboration with US interagency partners will further constrain Iran’s ability to finance terrorism, rebuild weapons factories, and replenish their military,” Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, said in a statement.
US Claims Naval Blockade Has Cost Iran More Than $25 Billion
US Central Command estimated that its naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting more than $25 billion worth of crude oil.
