US Forces Disable Oil Tanker in Gulf of Oman Amid Blockade Enforcement
US Military Action in the Gulf of Oman
US Central Command (CENTCOM) has reported that American forces disabled an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman after it allegedly breached restrictions related to an ongoing blockade against Iran. According to a statement shared on social media, the tanker, which was unladen and flagged under Palau, was intercepted on June 8 while navigating international waters and attempting to head towards an Iranian port.
The vessel, known as the M/T Marivex, was halted after it did not adhere to directives from US forces. CENTCOM indicated that an F/A-18 Super Hornet, launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln, targeted the ship’s engineering and steering sections with precision munitions, effectively preventing it from continuing its journey. The command confirmed, "The Marivex is no longer sailing to Iran," in their announcement.
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) June 8, 2026
CENTCOM explained that this operation is part of a larger maritime enforcement initiative aimed at stopping vessels from reaching Iranian ports in violation of the blockade. Since the operations commenced on April 13, US forces have disabled seven ships that did not comply, redirected 134 compliant vessels, and permitted 42 ships carrying humanitarian aid to pass through the area.
The Gulf of Oman is a crucial maritime route adjacent to the Strait of Hormuz, making it a sensitive area for global energy shipments. Consequently, any military actions in this region are closely monitored by international markets and regional authorities. The US military has not disclosed additional information regarding the ownership or cargo of the tanker, and independent verification of the incident is currently unavailable.