Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Friday to have captured an oil tanker in a “special operation” in the Gulf of Oman, while the United States military said it disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers attempting to enter Iranian ports.
The incidents came hours after the US and Iran exchanged fire in the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about the stability of a fragile ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
According to Iran’s Fars news agency, the IRGC seized the Ocean Koi, a Barbados-registered vessel for allegedly attempting to “disrupt oil exports and the interests of the Iranian nation.” State media released video showing Iranian forces boarding the ship.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that American forces disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers seeking access to Iranian ports. Admiral Bradley Cooper, CENTCOM commander, said US forces remain committed to enforcing the blockade of vessels entering or leaving Iran.
Clash in the Strait
Earlier on Friday, the two sides traded fire in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump said Iran attacked three US Navy destroyers. Iran’s military command accused the US of violating the ceasefire by striking an Iranian oil tanker and another vessel, wounding 10 sailors and leaving five missing. It also claimed US air strikes hit civilian areas on Qeshm Island.
Trump later described the exchange as a “love tap,” downplaying its significance as a breach of the pause in fighting. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US is still awaiting Iran’s response to its latest proposal for a lasting ceasefire.
Maritime Rules
Iran announced plans for a new “Persian Gulf Strait Authority” to manage traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of global oil passes. Under the new regulations, ships must obtain prior clearance from Iranian authorities, provide details on origin, cargo, and destination, and pay toll fees.
Iranian officials described this as the establishment of a new maritime regime in response to perceived threats to national security. The move aims to assert greater Iranian control over the strategic waterway.
Defence analysts say the IRGC’s actions are intended to project power and demonstrate strategic control over the critical chokepoint, particularly amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Washington to discuss Pakistan-led mediation efforts. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said it is still reviewing the US proposal while condemning recent attacks.
