U.S. Confirms F-35A Fighter Jets Supporting Iran Blockade as 92 Vessels Redirected

U.S. Central Command said forces enforcing the maritime blockade around Iran had redirected 92 commercial vessels, disabled three and boarded two as of September 6, 2026. Imagery released with the update showed a U.S. Air Force F-35A patrolling regional waters in support of the operation, adding airborne surveillance and force-protection capacity. CENTCOM did not disclose the number of fighters, squadron, base, weapons configuration or specific mission assigned. The imagery confirms F-35A involvement but does not show the aircraft directly intercepting merchant ships or establish a particular force size.