LEBAK PORTAL – Tensions between Iran and the United States have increased again after Iranian forces launched drone attacks on a number of American ships in the waters of the Gulf of Oman, Sunday (20/4). This action was said to be in response to the seizure of an Iranian container ship by the US military.
The semi-official Tasnim News Agency reported that the drone attack was carried out after the Touska container ship was boarded by American troops. The report did not specify whether the ship targeted was a military or commercial vessel.
Iran accuses US of violating ceasefire
Previously, Tehran had confirmed that the Iranian-flagged ship was shot at and intercepted by US forces. The Iranian government called the action a violation of the ceasefire agreement in effect on April 7.
A two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States was brokered by Pakistan and announced officially in early April. However, this latest incident has reignited tensions in the region.
According to a Fars News Agency report, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated that the Touska ship was attacked after its navigation system was disabled. Iran’s military spokesman, Ebrahim Zolfaghari, accused the US of committing “maritime piracy” by firing on the ship before boarding it.
US Version: Prevent Blockade Violation
The incident was first announced by US President Donald Trump on Sunday, then confirmed by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM).
In its statement, CENTCOM said the USS Spruance warship intercepted the Touska because it was suspected of trying to break through the US naval blockade in the Gulf of Oman. US Marines are reportedly still holding the ship, which is said to be heading for Bandar Abbas Port, Iran.
CENTCOM also released video footage on X’s social media platform showing a warning to the ship before warning shots were fired.
Ship Tracking and Route Data
Based on maritime tracking data, the Touska ship was recorded as having departed from Port Klang, Malaysia, on April 12 before the incident occurred in the Gulf of Oman.
Meanwhile, Iran emphasized that it would immediately provide a military response to what they called aggressive actions and violations of the ceasefire agreement.
The situation in the Gulf of Oman is now in the international spotlight, considering that the area is a strategic route for global trade and is often a point of geopolitical tension between the two countries.
Source: Anadolu
