The United States military says it struck a commercial cargo vessel attempting to enter an Iranian port despite repeated warnings. Officials said the action took place as enforcement of the US blockade on Iranian shipping routes continues.
According to US Central Command, the Gambia-flagged cargo ship Lian Star ignored multiple warnings before American forces fired a missile into its engine room. The vessel reportedly became disabled and remained adrift in the Gulf of Oman.
The incident comes as tensions remain high in the Middle East and negotiations continue over a possible ceasefire extension between Washington and Tehran.
US military stops ship near Iranian waters
US Central Command said the cargo ship ignored more than 20 warnings from military personnel overnight. Officials stated the vessel attempted to reach an Iranian port despite restrictions linked to the blockade.
American forces reportedly fired a missile targeting the engine room to stop the ship from moving forward. US officials said the operation aimed to disable the vessel rather than sink it.
A US official said forces have not boarded the ship and continue monitoring the situation. The vessel reportedly remains stranded in the Gulf of Oman.
Blockade enforcement intensifies in Strait of Hormuz
The US military said this marks the sixth ship stopped while attempting to bypass the blockade. Officials added that another vessel was allowed to proceed and more than 100 ships have been redirected.
The blockade began after Iran effectively disrupted movement through the Strait of Hormuz following regional conflict involving US and Israeli strikes. The strategic waterway remains essential for oil and gas transport.
Commercial shipping continues at lower levels despite tensions. Experts warn disruptions in the strait have affected fuel supplies, food production, and global economic stability.
Ceasefire talks continue amid regional tensions
A fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran has remained in place since early April. Discussions continue over a possible extension that would reopen shipping access and support nuclear negotiations.
US President Donald Trump reportedly met advisers to discuss whether to support a wider agreement. Iranian officials have said negotiations remain unfinished.
Iran has also warned foreign vessels about violating its transit rules and has faced criticism for imposing fees on passage through the strait. Some regional leaders continue to push for stability and restored shipping operations.
