US Forces Intercept Iranian Oil Tanker Amid Tensions

US Military Action Against Iranian Tanker

On Wednesday, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces have successfully "disabled" an Iranian-flagged oil tanker that was attempting to head towards an Iranian port, which was deemed a breach of a US-imposed blockade. CENTCOM reported that the tanker, known as the M/T Hasna, was intercepted around 09:00 ET while navigating international waters in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was reportedly unladen and on its way to Iran. The US military stated that several warnings were issued to the tanker, which did not comply. "US forces operating in the Gulf of Oman enforced blockade measures by disabling an Iranian-flagged unladen oil tanker attempting to sail toward an Iranian port," the statement indicated. It was noted that the tanker’s rudder was hit by rounds fired from a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). Consequently, the vessel was reported to be "no longer transiting to Iran."

CENTCOM emphasized that the blockade against vessels trying to enter or leave Iranian ports remains fully enforced. The command stated, "CENTCOM forces continue to act deliberately and professionally to ensure compliance." This incident occurs amidst rising tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran that commenced on February 28, which led Tehran to effectively halt vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy passage. After unsuccessful negotiations between Washington and Tehran, President Trump declared that US forces would implement a blockade in waters outside the strait, including the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. A temporary ceasefire established last month has faced challenges in recent days. Earlier this week, Trump unveiled an operation named "Project Freedom," aimed at escorting neutral vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative prompted Iranian retaliation, with reports of drones and missiles targeting several ships, including strikes on the United Arab Emirates. Trump later stated that the operation had been suspended following requests from Pakistan and other nations. The situation remains precarious, with both parties accusing one another of jeopardizing the fragile ceasefire.