US Says It Hit Cargo Ship Defying Iran Blockade

President Donald Trump speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Washington, as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, looks on.

The United States military said it struck a commercial cargo vessel accused of attempting to breach restrictions around Iranian ports, targeting the ship’s engine room after repeated warnings were allegedly ignored.

According to U.S. Central Command, the Gambia-flagged cargo ship Lian Star failed to respond to more than 20 warnings overnight while attempting to approach an Iranian port. U.S. forces later launched a missile strike that disabled the vessel.

A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the ship was left drifting in the Gulf of Oman and was not boarded following the incident.

The strike marks the latest escalation in maritime tensions linked to the ongoing standoff involving Iran. U.S. officials said six vessels have so far been stopped for attempting to violate restrictions, while more than 100 others have been redirected. One ship was reportedly allowed to continue its journey.

The maritime restrictions were introduced in April amid heightened regional tensions following military confrontations involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Although a fragile ceasefire remains in place, negotiations continue over a possible extension and broader efforts to address Iran’s nuclear programme.

Washington says the measures are intended to curb Iran’s maritime activity and increase economic pressure, while Tehran insists it retains authority over navigation in nearby waters.

Despite ongoing tensions, commercial shipping continues through parts of the region at reduced levels. Iranian military officials have warned that vessels violating regulations could face serious consequences, while also cautioning against foreign military involvement.

Qatar has voiced opposition to reported transit charges imposed on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, though officials suggested temporary operational arrangements could help restore normal maritime traffic.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials said no naval mines have so far been detected in the strategic waterway.