Iran has reportedly seized two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz after firing on three commercial vessels on April 22, increasing tensions in the region and complicating efforts to restart negotiations with the United States.
One of the “violating” vessels, Liberia-flagged Epaminodas, was headed to Gujarat’s Mundra Port, according to ship-tracking data.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported multiple incidents in and around the strait.
In one case, a container ship northeast of Oman was approached by an Iranian Revolutionary Guard boat and came under fire, sustaining heavy damage to its bridge, though the crew remained unharmed.
In another incident, a cargo vessel west of Iran was attacked and forced to stop, with all crew members accounted for.
Iranian state-linked media later said that two ships, MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, had been taken into custody by the Revolutionary Guard and were being escorted to Iran. Another vessel, Euphoria, was reportedly stranded along the Iranian coast, though this has not been independently confirmed.
The Revolutionary Guard Navy warned it would take firm action against any violations of navigation rules in the strait. Meanwhile, US naval enforcement reportedly caused dozens of ships to turn back, adding to disruptions in the waterway.
Iran has stated it will only resume talks with the United States if Washington lifts its naval blockade. Officials indicated that negotiations could potentially restart in Istanbul if conditions are met.
Elsewhere, diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Pakistan attempting to mediate and bring Iran back to negotiations. Despite rising tensions, oil prices fell slightly following news of a ceasefire extension.
At the same time, Iran is experiencing a prolonged internet shutdown, and officials say hundreds of schools damaged in recent strikes have been repaired.
Reports also suggest Iran continues exporting oil despite US sanctions, while its leadership faces increasing financial pressure.
