The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that American forces intercepted the Iranian-flagged cargo vessel TOUSKA in the Arabian Sea, following its breach of a U.S. naval blockade. This action took place on April 19, as reported by CENTCOM in a statement released on social media platform X.

According to the announcement, the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance engaged the TOUSKA while it was in transit to Bandar Abbas, Iran, navigating at a speed of 17 knots. CENTCOM’s statement indicated that the destroyer relayed multiple warnings to the vessel regarding its violation of the blockade.

The command noted that despite ongoing attempts to communicate and enforce compliance over several hours, the vessel did not heed the warnings and continued its course.

Details of the Interception Operation

Following the failure of the TOUSKA’s crew to comply, U.S. forces instructed the crew to evacuate the engine room. Subsequently, the USS Spruance disabled the ship’s propulsion system by firing several rounds from its 5-inch MK 45 gun aimed at the engine room. This measure was taken after a period of approximately six hours of communication and attempted compliance.

After the disablement of the vessel, U.S. Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit boarded the TOUSKA, which remains under U.S. custody. CENTCOM emphasised that the operation was conducted in a controlled, professional, and proportionate manner, underscoring that adherence to the blockade is essential.

Moreover, the command reported that since the initiation of the blockade, American forces have redirected 25 commercial vessels back to Iranian ports, highlighting ongoing enforcement measures in the region.

Political Context and Reactions

This incident follows remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that American forces have assumed “full custody” of the TOUSKA. He expressed that the vessel, which is nearly 900 feet long and bears significant weight akin to an aircraft carrier, attempted to penetrate the naval blockade in the Gulf of Oman.

Trump’s post on Truth Social indicated that the U.S. Navy issued clear warnings to the vessel, which the Iranian crew disregarded. Consequently, the U.S. Navy took decisive action to halt the vessel’s advance. The president further stated that the TOUSKA is subject to U.S. Treasury sanctions due to alleged prior illegal activities.

Amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, President Trump accused Iran of violating a ceasefire agreement and disrupting shipping lanes. He also alleged that Iran fired upon vessels in the strategic area, terming it a “Total Violation of our Ceasefire Agreement.” In contrast, Iranian officials have denied any agreement to engage in further discussions with the United States regarding negotiations.

This incident comes as the two-week ceasefire period approaches its conclusion on April 22, creating further complexity in the diplomatic landscape concerning U.S.-Iran relations. Iran’s state news agency, IRNA, explicitly stated that no decision had been made to participate in additional talks with the U.S., in light of recent announcements from President Trump regarding a delegation going to Pakistan for negotiations.

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