U.S. Central Command announced that it intercepted a commercial vessel attempting to breach the blockade imposed on Iran, marking a continued escalation in maritime enforcement operations.

The U.S. military said the vessel, identified as “Sifan,” is part of a 19-ship “shadow fleet” believed to be transporting Iranian oil and gas products to global markets.

A U.S. Navy helicopter launched from the guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney intercepted the vessel in the Arabian Sea, and it is currently complying with orders to return to Iran under escort.

CENTCOM added that vessels in this fleet are under U.S. sanctions due to their involvement in transporting billions of dollars’ worth of Iranian energy products.

Since the blockade began, 37 vessels have reportedly been redirected.