In a dramatic escalation of maritime tensions, US Marines have stormed and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Oman, marking the first interception under a new naval blockade initiated by former President Donald Trump. The operation, which occurred on April 19, 2026, involved marines rappelling from a US aircraft onto the vessel as it approached the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Footage Reveals Intense Boarding Operation
Video footage released by US Central Command captures the intense moment when US marines descended onto the Iranian tanker, with a helicopter circling overhead. The marines departed from the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7) and transited over the Arabian Sea to board and seize the vessel, identified as M/V Touska.
Vessel Disabled After Repeated Warnings
The Iranian-flagged commercial ship, nearly 900 feet long and weighing almost as much as an aircraft carrier, failed to comply with repeated warnings from US forces over a six-hour period. In response, the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) disabled Touska's propulsion by reportedly blowing a hole in the engine room, allowing the marines to take full custody of the ship.
Trump Confirms Seizure on Social Media
Donald Trump confirmed the seizure on his social media platform, stating that the Iranian crew refused to listen to warnings, leading to the Navy ship stopping them right in their tracks. He emphasized that the vessel attempted to breach the naval blockade, which commenced on Monday, and it did not go well for them.
This incident highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz being a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The US military's actions underscore a firm stance against attempts to violate the blockade, potentially signaling further confrontations in the volatile waters of the Middle East.
