U.S. Military Halts Vessel Attempting to Break Blockade

The U.S. military intervened to stop a merchant ship, the Gambia-flagged bulk carrier Lian Star, from breaking through its blockade of Iranian ports. A U.S. official revealed this information on Saturday, not wanting to be named due to the sensitive nature of military operations. Despite multiple warnings, the ship attempted to reach an Iranian port. It was eventually disabled by U.S. aircraft in the Gulf of Oman and now remains adrift, with U.S. forces yet to board it.

This incident marks the sixth ship the U.S. military has stopped in efforts to maintain the blockade, which began on April 17. This blockade followed Iran’s action of closing the strait after conflict erupted due to U.S. and Israeli strikes at the end of February. A ceasefire, in place since April 7, has held, but the world awaits confirmation of any 60-day extension deal for further talks on Iran’s nuclear program.

The strategic Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman remains a focal point of global concern, as oil, gas, and essential supply shipments are affected, straining both consumers and producers. The U.S. blockade specifically aims to limit Iran’s shipments and further stress its already weakened economy. Discussions on a potential deal involving the ceasefire extension and the strait’s reopening are ongoing, with U.S. President Donald Trump meeting with advisers, although no decision has been announced.

Despite Iran’s assertions requiring approval for transit, commercial traffic persists through the strait, though at reduced levels. Iran’s military command has warned against any violations, threatening the security of unauthorized vessels. They have imposed transit tolls up to $2 million, a move viewed by experts as contrary to the freedom of peaceful navigation principle in international maritime trade.

Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, expressed opposition to transit fees but hinted at possible negotiations if fees temporarily support mine clearing or similar uses to ensure the strait’s safe passage. Notably, the U.S. has neither found nor destroyed any mines within the strait.