US President Donald Trump has announced that an Iranian-flagged vessel has been seized as part of the maritime blockade imposed on Iran. The cargo ship, reportedly detained by US forces in the Gulf region, has not yet prompted any official response from Iran. Trump stated on Truth Social that the US Navy took control of the ship named ‘Tosca’ after warnings to stop were ignored.
This announcement coincides with the White House confirming that US Vice President Mike Pence will lead the second phase of talks in Pakistan aimed at ending the conflict with Iran. However, Tehran has yet to officially confirm its participation in these talks. Iranian state media has indicated that Iranian officials will not take part as long as the US maritime blockade continues.
Trump described the seized vessel as approximately 900 feet long and weighing as much as an aircraft carrier. He said the ship was stopped by creating holes in the engine room, citing violations of the US naval blockade. “Due to past illegal activities, Tosca is under US Treasury sanctions. We have full control of the ship and are inspecting its contents,” Trump said.
A video released by US Central Command shows a US naval ship warning the vessel to halt, followed by gunfire. Following a failed first round of talks between the US and Iran, Trump earlier warned that the maritime blockade of Iranian ports would continue until an agreement between the two countries is reached.
