President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social Sunday that American naval forces captured an Iranian ship in the Gulf of Oman following the vessel’s attempt to break through a US maritime blockade. Trump characterized the seizure as necessary action after the ship’s crew refused to comply with naval instructions.
The confrontation occurred amid escalating tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has attempted to gain control of the waterway despite an existing two-week ceasefire agreement. This critical shipping lane continues to be a flashpoint in the ongoing conflict, with potential consequences for regional stability and worldwide oil markets.
Trump identified the captured vessel as the TOUSKA, explaining that it was halted after ignoring commands from the USS SPRUANCE, a guided missile destroyer. American forces reportedly damaged the ship’s propulsion system during the operation. “The Iranian crew refused to listen, so our Navy ship stopped them right in their tracks by blowing a hole in the engineroom,” Trump stated.
US Marines have now assumed control of the vessel, which Trump noted falls under US Treasury sanctions because of what he termed a record of unlawful operations. Officials are currently conducting an inspection of the ship’s cargo. “We have full custody of the ship, and are seeing what’s on board!” Trump posted.
The President characterized the intercepted vessel as measuring “an early 900 feet long and weighing almost as much as an aircraft carrier” and confirmed it was attempting to navigate through the blockade when American forces intervened.
This maritime confrontation comes as diplomatic efforts remain stalled. While Trump announced Sunday evening that discussions with Iran would occur in Islamabad, Iranian representatives disputed this claim, stating that American “excessive demands” continue to prevent meaningful negotiations from moving forward.
