The United States has launched a new military task force aimed at disrupting Iran’s supply networks across its land borders and the Caspian Sea, expanding Washington’s economic and military pressure on Tehran.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced Saturday that Admiral Brad Cooper had ordered the establishment of Task Force Iron Gate, an initiative designed to restrict the movement of advanced weapons, sanctioned materials and sensitive technologies into and out of Iran.
The task force will operate from CENTCOM headquarters in Tampa, Florida, with approximately 20 civilian and military personnel coordinating with other US government agencies.
The move represents a significant expansion of Washington’s pressure campaign, which has previously concentrated on restricting Iranian maritime trade through a naval blockade.
Under the new initiative, US authorities will seek to identify and disrupt networks transporting military equipment, dual-use technologies and illicit revenue across Iran’s land borders and through the Caspian Sea.
CENTCOM said the operation was intended to weaken Tehran’s ability to finance armed groups, rebuild weapons production facilities and replenish military supplies.
Cooper described the initiative as an extension of the existing maritime blockade, saying closer cooperation between the military and other government agencies would further restrict Iran’s military and financial capabilities.
The announcement follows months of US naval operations targeting Iranian maritime commerce.
According to CENTCOM, the blockade has prevented Iran from exporting more than $25 billion worth of crude oil, depriving Tehran of a major source of revenue.
Despite those restrictions, Iran has continued using alternative supply networks through neighbouring countries and the Caspian Sea.
A Reuters investigation previously identified Iranian procurement networks that imported at least $2 billion in military-related equipment, explosives and heavy vehicles since January 2025.
Those shipments reportedly involved maritime routes from Russia, overland transport through Central Asia and cargo flights from China.
The creation of Task Force Iron Gate comes as President Donald Trump considers further military action against Iran following the US midterm elections.
Washington has maintained pressure on Tehran over its nuclear programme and military capabilities while leaving open the possibility of a negotiated agreement.
