Iran strikes US vessels in retaliation for cargo ship's seizure

Iranian forces launched drone strikes on Sunday targeting multiple US vessels in retaliation for the reported seizure of an Iranian cargo ship by American forces in the Gulf of Oman, according to Iranian state-linked media.

The semi-official Tasnim news agency said the strikes followed US forces boarding the container ship TOUSKA. The report did not specify whether the targeted vessels were military or commercial.

Iran earlier confirmed the seizure and warned of retaliation, calling it a violation of a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire that took effect on April 7.

The semi-official Fars News Agency, citing Iran’s military headquarters, said US forces disabled the ship’s navigation system before boarding it.

Iranian officials alleged the vessel was fired upon prior to interception.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the USS 'Spruance' intercepted the Iranian-flagged ship in the Gulf of Oman, saying it attempted to breach a US naval blockade.

CENTCOM said Marines remain in control of the vessel, which was reportedly bound for Bandar Abbas.

The US also released video footage showing the interception process.

Iran condemned the operation as “maritime piracy” and warned of further retaliation.

Source: Anadolu Ajansi