US Says It Disabled Oil Tanker Bound for Iran After Vessel Ignored Warnings In Strait Of Hormuz

The United States military says it disabled an oil tanker that was traveling toward Iran after the vessel repeatedly ignored warnings from American forces in waters near the Strait of Hormuz. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the Botswana-flagged tanker, identified as M/T Lexie, failed to follow instructions issued by US forces over a period of nearly 24 hours while heading toward Iran's Kharg Island, one of the country's most important oil export terminals.

US officials said military personnel attempted several times to contact the ship and direct it away from its course. When the crew allegedly refused to comply, a US aircraft fired a Hellfire missile at the vessel's engine room. The strike was designed to disable the tanker rather than sink it, preventing the ship from continuing its journey toward Iran. No immediate reports of casualties were released following the operation.

The incident is the latest development in growing tensions between Washington and Tehran in the Gulf region. The United States has been enforcing maritime restrictions and a blockade aimed at limiting access to Iranian ports. American officials argue that these measures are necessary to increase pressure on Iran and restrict activities linked to its oil trade. Since the blockade began in April, US forces say they have redirected more than 120 vessels and disabled several ships that allegedly attempted to violate the restrictions.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important shipping routes, carrying a large share of global oil exports. Any military action in the area attracts international attention because disruptions can affect global energy markets and shipping operations. Analysts say the latest confrontation highlights the continuing risks facing commercial vessels operating in the region amid the ongoing dispute between the United States and Iran.

The tanker incident comes as tensions have increased across the Gulf following a series of military exchanges, sanctions, and disputes over maritime security. Iran has strongly opposed US actions in the region, while Washington maintains that its operations are intended to enforce international security measures and protect navigation routes. The latest event is expected to add further strain to already fragile diplomatic efforts between the two countries.

International observers are closely monitoring the situation, as any escalation in the Strait of Hormuz could have wider consequences for global trade, oil prices, and regional stability. With both sides continuing to exchange warnings and military actions, concerns remain high that further incidents at sea could increase tensions across the Middle East in the coming weeks.