US creates staff team targeting Iran’s overland supply routes
CENTCOM announced Task Force Iron Gate: about 20 military and civilian personnel in Tampa tasked with coordinating with other US government agencies.
US Central Command commander Admiral Brad Cooper ordered the establishment of Task Force Iron Gate on 7 November 2026. CENTCOM’s full release was published by the official DVIDS service, confirming the development Reuters had reported earlier.
It is an internal staff of approximately 20 military and civilian personnel based in Tampa, Florida. It will coordinate with other US government agencies on flows of advanced weapons systems, dual-use technologies, sanctioned materials and revenue streams the command describes as illegal.
Land borders and the Caspian Sea
The release identifies Iran’s land borders and the Caspian Sea. The new team adds coordination on those routes to existing US maritime pressure.
The statement confirms the creation of a staff team without specifying new force deployments in neighbouring states, particular interdiction operations or their dates.
The command’s assessments
CENTCOM says the naval blockade has prevented Iranian crude exports worth more than $25 billion. That is the command’s own estimate, rather than an independently audited economic result. Cooper’s statement that the team will restrict financing and replenishment of Iran’s arsenal likewise describes the US objective.
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