US strikes Panama-flagged ship attempting Iran blockade run
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U.S. military forces struck the Panama-flagged cargo ship M/V Vela Nova with two Hellfire missiles on August 11 after it ignored repeated warnings while trying to enter an Iranian port through the Gulf of Oman, CENTCOM said. The strike disabled the vessel's steering, marking the third ship disabled under the current blockade. President Donald Trump later claimed the U.S. has full control over the Strait of Hormuz and warned Iran would be 'shocked' if it takes action.
The Strike
U.S. forces fired two Hellfire missiles from an MH-60 Navy helicopter into the engine room of the M/V Vela Nova after its crew ignored repeated warnings, CENTCOM said. The strike disabled the steering of the Panama-flagged vessel, which was attempting to reach an unspecified Iranian port via the Gulf of Oman. The ship’s last known position was recorded on August 6 at the Indian port of Nhava Sheva, according to VesselFinder data.
Blockade Enforcement
As of August 11, CENTCOM had redirected 55 commercial vessels attempting to break the Iran blockade, disabled three, and boarded two, the command reported. The Vela Nova incident is part of a broader campaign to enforce maritime restrictions against Iran, which the U.S. says is aimed at preventing sanctions evasion. The blockade has drawn criticism from Tehran, which recently demanded compensation for war damages and sanctions relief as conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump's Statement
President Trump, speaking to reporters, asserted that the U.S. has 'total control' of the Strait of Hormuz and warned that Iran would be 'shocked' if it undertakes any action. The remarks came amid heightened tensions following Iran’s conditions for reopening the strait. Trump said he does not trust Tehran, contradicting earlier optimistic statements about relations.
What's Next
The U.S. military is expected to continue intercepting vessels attempting to breach the blockade, with CENTCOM monitoring the situation. Whether Iran’s conditions for reopening the strait will be met or lead to further escalation remains unclear.
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US strikes Panama-flagged ship attempting Iran blockade run
