Says it disables another commercial ship trying to breach blockade and reach Iran

The United States says it has disabled another merchant vessel attempting to breach its blockade of Iranian ports, underscoring a continuous effort to constrain Tehran's maritime movements. The Gambia-flagged bulk carrier Lian Star ignored multiple warnings from U.S. forces and was disabled by aircraft in the Gulf of Oman, leaving it adrift and not boarded as it drifted toward an Iranian port. This action marks the sixth vessel stopped by the blockade since it began on April 17, with one ship subsequently allowed to proceed after monitoring and assessment. The blockade targets Iran's maritime traffic amid a broader dispute that has disrupted shipments of oil, natural gas, and related supplies, and it comes as a fragile ceasefire has held since April 7 in the region. By constraining Hormuz traffic, the operation underscores how disruption of the strait reverberates through global energy markets, with oil and natural gas shipments in flux. U.S. officials say the objective is to curb Iran's shipments and cash flows, intensifying economic pressure to influence Tehran's calculations. Washington has not yet confirmed extending the ceasefire beyond its current term, even as negotiations regarding a possible extension and renewed talks on Iran's nuclear program continue. Iran has said the deal has not been finalized, adding uncertainty to the regional outlook. Observers say the outcome could impact global energy markets and regional security.