CENTCOM says Iran blockade has kept at least $25 billion of crude from export

The commander of US Central Command, Adm. Brad Cooper, said on Friday that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting at least $25 billion worth of crude oil, according to Iran International and Al Arabiya. In a video statement, Cooper said the blockade remained in force, with only humanitarian aid exempt, and that Iran had no seaborne exports or imports. He also said about $350 million in Iranian cryptocurrency had been frozen, and claimed Tehran was holding back salaries, pensions and benefits, including in the Revolutionary Guards. Iran International, citing Reuters, adds that CENTCOM said earlier in the week that 135 ships had been turned around and four disabled since the blockade was reimposed on 14 July.

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