US forms 20-member task force to restrict Iran’s weapons routes
The United States has formed a 20-member task force to prevent Iran from moving advanced weapons, sanctioned materials and other restricted goods across its land borders and the Caspian Sea.
In a statement posted on X on Saturday, November 7, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its commander, Adm. Brad Cooper, had ordered the establishment of the new team, comprising civilian and military personnel based in Tampa, Florida.
The task force will coordinate with other US government agencies to monitor and disrupt the movement of advanced weapons systems, dual-use technologies, sanctioned goods and illicit revenue linked to Iran.
“The establishment of Task Force Iron Gate reinforces the success of our ironclad blockade against Iran at sea,” Cooper said.
He added that the initiative would strengthen cooperation between CENTCOM and other US agencies, further limiting Tehran’s ability to finance terrorism, rebuild weapons factories and replenish its military.
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) November 7, 2026
CENTCOM claimed that its naval blockade had prevented Iran from exporting more than USD 25 billion worth of crude oil in recent months. It said enforcement measures remained in place against vessels entering or departing Iranian ports.
Iran rejects US initiative
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) dismissed the new task force, arguing that Washington would fail to achieve its economic objectives.
According to Reuters, IRGC spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi said on Sunday, November 8, that Tehran had made preparations and maintained close communication with neighbouring countries to counter US measures.
“The Iron Gate plan is merely a wordplay, the Americans cannot achieve their objectives of imposing severe economic pressure to cause economic collapse in Iran through this approach,” Mohebbi was quoted as saying by the semi-official Fars news agency.
Washington intensifies pressure on Tehran
The task force is part of a wider US campaign to restrict Iran’s trade and financial resources.
Washington imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports on April 13, covering vessels entering and leaving them along the Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz between non-Iranian ports were exempted.
The move came after Tehran sought to restrict maritime traffic through the strategic waterway, which normally carries around one-fifth of global oil trade.
Separately, the US State Department announced a USD 20 million reward under its Rewards for Justice programme for information about Iran’s nuclear programme, including its facilities, equipment and associated individuals. The offer also provides for possible alternative accommodation for eligible informants.
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