President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. Navy intercepted and seized the Iranian-flagged cargo vessel TOUSKA in the Gulf of Oman after the ship allegedly attempted to pass through a U.S.-enforced naval blockade near the Strait of Hormuz. According to Trump and U.S. military officials, the operation was carried out by the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance.
U.S. Central Command stated that the vessel was repeatedly warned to stop and informed that it was violating blockade restrictions. Officials said the crew failed to comply with multiple warnings issued over approximately six hours. After those warnings were ignored, the destroyer reportedly instructed personnel aboard the cargo ship to evacuate the engine room before firing several rounds from its 5-inch deck gun, disabling the vessel’s propulsion system.
Following the disabling of the ship, U.S. Marines boarded the vessel and took control of it. Trump later said the United States had full custody of the ship and was inspecting its contents. The administration also noted that the TOUSKA had previously been placed under U.S. sanctions because of alleged involvement in prohibited activities.
The seizure marked a significant escalation in ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran in the region. The incident occurred amid heightened disputes over maritime traffic and access through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. U.S. officials described the action as a proportional enforcement measure intended to uphold blockade restrictions, while Iranian authorities condemned the operation and characterized it as an unlawful act.
The event has drawn international attention as concerns continue to grow over regional stability, shipping security, and the potential for further escalation between Washington and Tehran.
