US attacks tanker heading to Iran in Arabian Sea

U.S. military forces have struck a tanker en route to an Iranian port in the Arabian Sea, according to the American military. The vessel reportedly ignored multiple warnings as it attempted to violate the U.S. blockade against ships traveling to and from Iranian ports.

The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) stated that an American aircraft disabled the vessel by firing Hellfire missiles at its smokestack. The tanker is no longer proceeding toward Iran. Centcom also released a short video clip purportedly showing the strike on the ship's smokestack. The tanker was reportedly not carrying any cargo.

This incident occurs as the U.S. reimposed its naval blockade on vessels bound for Iranian ports and coastal areas. During the first 24 hours of this blockade's enforcement, U.S. forces have redirected two compliant vessels and disabled this one non-compliant ship. Centcom affirmed that U.S. forces remain vigilant and prepared to ensure full compliance with the blockade.