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New Delhi. America carried out a major maritime operation in the Gulf of Oman and stopped a commercial ship heading towards Iran. According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the Gambian-flagged cargo ship M/V Lian Star ignored US blockade warnings, resulting in the ship being disabled by a Hellfire missile fired from its engine room.

Action taken after more than 20 warnings

According to CENTCOM, US forces had spotted the ship heading from the Gulf of Oman in international waters towards an Iranian port. The ship’s crew was warned via radio more than 20 times that it was violating the US blockade. Despite this the ship did not change direction.

Engine room attacked with Hellfire missile

The US military said a US military aircraft fired a Hellfire missile at the ship’s engine room after warnings were not followed. After the attack, the ship’s engine stopped completely and it became unable to move forward. CENTCOM said the ship was no longer headed toward Iran.

Strict surveillance continues amid ceasefire

US officials say the maritime blockade is being strictly enforced despite the ceasefire with Iran. According to CENTCOM, more than five commercial vessels have been disabled since the blockade was imposed, while 116 vessels have been diverted.

Impact on global maritime trade also

The ongoing tension in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz region is also impacting international maritime trade and energy supplies. Many ships have had to take alternative routes, while security surveillance in the area has been continuously increased.

America’s clear message

The US military has indicated that similar actions will continue against ships violating the blockade. CENTCOM says that there will be no relaxation in monitoring and following rules on sea routes.