US seizes Iranian ship, Iran claims drone strike retaliation

Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply after Iranian media reported drone attacks on US naval vessels, allegedly in retaliation for the seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo ship by American forces.

According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, Iranian forces launched drone strikes targeting US military ships in the Sea of Oman. The report described the attacks as a direct response to what Tehran has termed an unlawful US action against one of its commercial vessels. However, Tasnim did not provide details on the number of drones used or confirm whether any damage was inflicted.

On the US side, President Donald Trump stated that American forces had intercepted and taken control of an Iranian cargo ship named TOUSKA in the Gulf of Oman. Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the vessel attempted to breach a US-imposed naval blockade.

A US destroyer issued warnings to the ship before taking action, Trump said, adding that the vessel was disabled by targeting its engine room after the crew failed to comply. He confirmed that US Marines are now in custody of the ship.

Iranian authorities have condemned the seizure, with the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters warning of a response to what it called “armed maritime piracy.” State media also indicated that Tehran would not participate in upcoming diplomatic talks while the US blockade remains in effect.

The White House had earlier announced that Vice President JD Vance would lead a delegation for a second round of negotiations with Iran, reportedly planned in Pakistan. However, Iran’s official news agency IRNA reported that Tehran has rejected participation under current conditions.

The developments come amid a fragile two-week ceasefire in the region, raising concerns of further escalation in a strategically critical maritime corridor.

(With inputs from syndicated feed)