Tensions in the Gulf escalated further after US forces disabled a third oil tanker this week, accusing the vessel of violating Washington’s blockade on Iran-linked maritime trade
Washington DC: The United States has disabled a third commercial oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman this week, claiming the vessel violated its ongoing maritime blockade against Iran by attempting to transport Iranian oil.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces acted against the Guinea-Bissau-flagged tanker M/T Jalveer after it allegedly attempted to transport oil from Iran through the Gulf of Oman.
The US military said an aircraft fired two Hellfire missiles into the vessel’s engine room after the crew repeatedly failed to comply with instructions from American forces.
The latest action marks the third commercial vessel disabled by US forces in the region within the week.
Previous incidents
Earlier this week, US forces disabled the Palau-flagged tankers M/T Marivex and M/T Settebello for allegedly violating the blockade. CENTCOM said one vessel was attempting to sail to an Iranian port while the other was transporting Iranian oil.
The incidents form part of a wider US maritime enforcement operation that began in April.
CENTCOM said the blockade is being enforced against vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas.
According to US figures, American forces have now disabled multiple non-compliant vessels, redirected more than a hundred ships that complied with instructions, and permitted dozens of humanitarian aid vessels to continue their journeys.
The US maintains that the measures are intended to enforce restrictions on maritime trade linked to Iran.
Rising tensions in regional waters
The latest tanker incident comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, with military exchanges and disruptions to shipping routes increasing concerns over regional stability.
The Gulf of Oman and the nearby Strait of Hormuz remain among the world’s most strategically important energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil exports. Recent conflict-related disruptions have already affected commercial shipping and energy markets.
The US blockade of Iranian ports began on April 13 as part of broader measures linked to the ongoing confrontation between Washington and Tehran. Since then, several vessels have been intercepted, redirected or disabled by US forces for allegedly breaching blockade rules.
The latest incident is likely to add to concerns about maritime security in the Gulf region and could further escalate tensions between the two countries.
Published: 11 Jun 2026, 05:33 pm IST
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