CENTCOM’s ‘Iron Gate’ targets Iran’s weapons routes
On Nov. 7, the commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) directed the establishment of a task force that will support ongoing US government efforts to prevent Iran from using ground routes to transport advanced weapons and other materials. In a statement, CENTCOM announced that Adm. Brad Cooper directed the formation of Task Force Iron Gate, an internal staff of approximately 20 civilian and military personnel based in Tampa, Florida.
The new CENTCOM team will coordinate with other US government agencies on preventing the movement of advanced weapons systems, dual-use technologies, sanctioned materials, and illegal revenue streams across Iran's land borders and the Caspian Sea. "The establishment of Task Force Iron Gate reinforces the success of our ironclad blockade against Iran at sea," Cooper said. "Strengthening CENTCOM's collaboration with U.S. interagency partners will further constrain Iran's ability to finance terrorism, rebuild weapons factories, and replenish their military."
In recent months, America's naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting more than $25 billion in crude oil. Strict enforcement at sea continues against all ships entering or departing Iranian ports. CENTCOM's new 'Iron Gate' CENTCOM
Left out here: Leaves out what changes the picture
CENTCOM said humanitarian aid remains an exception to the sea restrictions. The article says enforcement continues against all ships entering or departing Iranian ports and stops there. A reader is left to believe that the blockade admits no exception at all.
How we know
- Anadolu Agency (English) reported“with humanitarian aid remaining an exception to the restrictions”US army announces new task force to disrupt Iran’s supply routes (opens in a new tab)