US Navy disables ship sailing towards Iran with missile strike

The U.S. military took action in the Gulf of Oman on May 29, disabling a commercial vessel that was reportedly heading towards Iran despite repeated warnings. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that an American military aircraft fired a Hellfire missile, targeting the propulsion system of the ship identified as 'Lian Star.'

According to CENTCOM, the vessel, flying a Gambian flag, was transiting international waters toward an Iranian port. U.S. forces issued over 20 warnings to the ship, informing its crew that they were violating U.S. blockade regulations. However, the 'Lian Star' continued its course toward Iran.

The missile strike successfully immobilized the ship's engines, preventing it from reaching its intended destination. CENTCOM emphasized that U.S. forces continue to enforce maritime blockades, noting that similar actions have previously resulted in five commercial ships losing power and 116 vessels altering their course.

This incident occurs amidst ongoing, albeit uncertain, peace negotiations between the United States and Iran, highlighting the continued tensions and U.S. military presence enforcing sanctions and blockades in the region.