The US Navy fired on the Iranian-flagged vessel before taking control|@DOWReponse|X
The US seized an Iranian-flagged ship in the Gulf of Oman on Sunday, marking the first known use of force in its blockade strategy and sharply escalating regional tensions. The US Navy fired on the vessel before taking control of it.
The ship, identified as the MV Touska, had frequently traveled between Iranian and Chinese ports and had drawn scrutiny for suspected smuggling activity. Iran’s military quickly warned it would retaliate, raising fears of a wider confrontation at sea.
The seizure has thrown planned diplomacy into confusion. A second round of US-Iran talks, expected to take place in Pakistan, now appears unlikely. President Donald Trump said yesterday his envoys would arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, to hold discussions. But Iran’s foreign ministry said there are no current plans for negotiations.
Is the Strait open or closed?
After agreeing to a 10-day ceasefire on Friday, Iran said Hormuz was open. Trump thanked Tehran but kept a US blockade on Iranian traffic, to which the IRGC said the Strait was back under “strict management.” Confusion followed when, on Saturday, India said Iran fired on two ships after letting others pass.
Tensions escalated further when Tehran warned it could target vessels attempting to cross the passage.
Key issues remain unresolved, including disagreements over control of Iran’s uranium stockpiles and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which has faced weeks of disruption. The seizure has added further strain to already complex negotiations.
Markets reacted immediately, with oil prices rising and US stock futures slipping, reflecting growing uncertainty over the escalating standoff. Brent crude jumped over 6% to $96 a barrel.
The initial two-week US–Iran ceasefire ends Wednesday.