US plans new task force to curb Iran's land and Caspian weapons trade

The United States is preparing a new military task force to restrict Iran's movement of weapons and sanctioned goods across land borders and the Caspian Sea, expanding pressure beyond its naval blockade. The initiative, called Task Force Iron Gate, will be based in Tampa, Florida, and work with other US government agencies. The task force follows months of a US naval blockade that Washington says has stopped Iran from exporting over $25 billion worth of crude oil. Centcom Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said the initiative would make it harder for Iran to finance militant groups and rebuild weapons factories. The announcement comes after US President Donald Trump said American forces carried out limited strikes against Iran's air defence systems near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's nuclear programme remains a central obstacle to any agreement, with Centcom offering a reward of up to $20 million for information about it. Trump indicated diplomatic discussions are continuing with Tehran, though concerns remain that further military action could be ordered.