US military expands Iran blockade to land borders and Caspian Sea

The US military is establishing a new task force to restrict Iran's movement of advanced weapons and sanctioned material across its land borders and the Caspian Sea, expanding beyond a months-long naval blockade. The announcement will be made Saturday by US Central Command. Task Force Iron Gate, based in Tampa, Florida, will coordinate with other US government agencies to target dual-use goods and illegal revenue streams. Admiral Brad Cooper said the effort will constrain Iran's ability to finance terrorism and rebuild weapons factories. Central Command estimates the naval blockade has already prevented Iran from exporting over $25 billion in crude oil. The new task force represents a broader strategy to tighten economic and military pressure on Tehran.