US Military Disables Gambia-Flagged Vessel Attempting to Reach Iran

A Gambia-flagged cargo vessel, the M/V Lian Star, was disabled by the US military in the Gulf of Oman on May 29. US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the ship ignored more than 20 warnings before a US aircraft fired a Hellfire missile into its engine room. The vessel was attempting to breach a US-enforced blockade and sail toward an Iranian port.

CENTCOM stated the strike was necessary to enforce the blockade on Iran and prevent unauthorized maritime access to its ports. The military confirmed this was the fifth commercial vessel disabled under the ongoing operation, with 116 others redirected. The statement did not specify if there were any injuries or casualties on board following the attack.

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the ship ignored more than 20 warnings while transiting international waters before a US aircraft fired a Hellfire missile into its engine room, rendering it unable to continue its journey.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions and maritime security operations in the Gulf of Oman, with the US asserting its control over the waterways and enforcing sanctions against Iran.

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the strike was carried out to enforce the blockade on Iran and prevent unauthorized maritime access to its ports.