US launches Task Force Iron Gate to cut Iran's weapons and oil trade routes

President Donald Trump announced Task Force Iron Gate, a new US initiative to restrict weapons, dual-use technologies, and sanctioned materials moving into and out of Iran, operating alongside a naval blockade. The task force, established Saturday under CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, includes about 20 personnel based in Tampa, Florida, coordinating with US agencies to disrupt illicit movements across Iran's land borders and the Caspian Sea. The naval blockade has reportedly prevented over $25 billion in Iranian crude oil exports. The announcement coincides with statements from Iran's IRGC Aerospace Force highlighting domestic defence manufacturing, including the Arman missile and Khordad-3 system, with officials claiming Iran has transformed from a military importer to an exporter.