US military strikes tanker heading to Iran, seventh such action

U.S. forces have neutralized a tanker allegedly violating Iran's maritime blockade, marking the seventh instance of such action since the United States initiated its counter-blockade against Iran. The operation occurred near the coast of Bandar Abbas, Iran.

U.S. Central Command announced that an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet, operating from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, fired precision-guided missiles into the tanker's engine room and control room after the vessel's crew failed to comply with U.S. military instructions. The command stated the M/T Marivic is no longer proceeding towards Iran.

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The Palau-flagged M/T Marivic, which was transiting international waters in the Oman Sea towards Iran, was neutralized. When the ship's crew did not comply with the U.S. military's orders, an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet belonging to the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group fired precision-guided missiles at the ship's engine room.

The New York Times, citing maritime intelligence firm Windward, reported that the tanker is currently anchored off the Omani coast. The report also indicated that the vessel experienced a fire, leading to the evacuation of its entire crew.

Since April 13, the U.S. military has been enforcing a maritime blockade in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to disrupt Iran's maritime logistics and financial resources. Central Command claims that in addition to neutralizing seven vessels that defied orders, they have also diverted 134 ships and permitted the passage of 42 humanitarian aid vessels.

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The Marivic is no longer sailing towards Iran.