Confusion deepened in the Strait of Hormuz after Iran attacked and seized three vessels near the strategic waterway, according to a report by Associated Press. The incidents came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump extended a ceasefire with Tehran.
The report said Iran described the attacks as retaliation for a U.S. naval blockade and earlier vessel seizures.
The Iranian military on Thursday released video footage it claimed shows its forces raiding a vessel in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a day after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had intercepted two ships and diverted them into Iranian territorial waters.… pic.twitter.com/o3u5OzamqJ
— Rudaw English (@RudawEnglish) April 23, 2026
Iranian outlets reported that ships including the Epaminondas and MSC Francesca were taken, while another vessel was left stranded. Conflicting statements from Iranian authorities have added uncertainty over whether the strait is open.
According to analysts cited in the report, sporadic attacks may be aimed at maintaining pressure on global shipping and raising insurance costs. The U.S. continues to enforce a blockade, though some Iranian oil shipments are still reaching markets.
The report said even if a deal is reached, restoring normal shipping could take weeks due to security concerns.
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TIPP Staff
