The blockade was ordered by the U.S. military on 13 April 2026, aimed at stopping Iran’s maritime trade as part of broader pressure linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. U.S. Central Command had warned all vessels that attempts to enter or leave Iranian ports without permission would be intercepted. Hundreds of ships had already been redirected or turned around before the latest incident.

In response to the seizure, Iran condemned the U.S. action, calling it a violation of the ceasefire and “armed piracy.” Tehran’s military leadership has vowed retaliation, and Iranian state media say the incident undermines fragile diplomacy. Officials in Iran have also withdrawn from planned peace talks, saying U.S. military pressure contradicts diplomatic efforts.

The clash also raises concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route through which a large portion of the world’s oil supply passes. Iran and the United States have accused each other of escalating hostilities in the region, with each side blaming the other for breaking terms of a truce that had been in place.

The U.S. government has released footage showing the destroyer issuing repeated warnings before disabling the vessel. The crew reportedly did not resist when U.S. Marines boarded. However, no clear information has been released about injuries.