WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: A major diplomatic and military row has erupted after United States forces intercepted and seized an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman. A spokesman for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters slammed the move as “maritime piracy” and a direct violation of the existing ceasefire. In response, President Donald Trump stated that US forces took custody of the Iranian-flagged cargo ship after its crew ignored multiple orders to halt, resulting in US forces disabling the ship’s engine room.
Amidst the escalating tension, the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported on Sunday that Tehran has rejected participation in the second round of scheduled talks with the US. Meanwhile, a White House official confirmed that Vice President JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner are slated to attend future negotiations with Iran. To bolster military readiness, the USS Gerald Ford has moved from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea to prepare for any potential resumption of hostilities if the ceasefire is not extended.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Monday released dramatic footage showing Marines boarding the Iranian-flagged vessel, M/V Touska. According to CENTCOM, the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance disabled the ship’s propulsion after it failed to comply with repeated warnings over a six-hour period. The video details Marines rappelling onto the deck from helicopters launched from the USS Tripoli. This operation in the Arabian Sea underscores the heightening military friction between Washington and Tehran.
With input from Iran International.
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