UPDATE03: Video footage of the incident was released by the United States Central Command. A warning was issued to the Iran-flagged container ship for all crew to “evacuate the engine room” and that the vessel was about to be “subject to disabling fire”. Subsequent video footage showed the USS SPRUANCE firing three shots at the vessel with a 5-inch MK 45 Naval Gun, disabling it. At the time of writing, no fatalities had been reported as a result of the incident.
UPDATE02: The OFAC-sanctioned, Iran-flagged container ship was damaged by the United States Navy as it transited westbound through the Gulf of Oman. President Trump announced that the vessel was “intercepted” by the United States Navy guided missile destroyer USS SPRUANCE. The vessel was reportedly issued a warning to cease its transit through the U.S. naval blockade in the Gulf of Oman but refused to comply. The vessel’s engine room was reported to have been damaged as a result of the incident. At the time of writing, the United States Navy was reported to be in control of the vessel.
UPDATE01: The OFAC-sanctioned, Iran-flagged container ship’s navigational status was listed as “Not Under Command”. Its last AIS transmission was 13:51 UTC where the vessel was drifting 45NM southeast of Chabahar.
An OFAC-sanctioned, Iran-flagged container ship was obstructed in its transit by U.S. naval assets whilst underway approximately 45NM southeast of Chabahar, Iran. AIS data indicated that the container ship was en route from Port Klang, Malaysia to Chabahar at 16kn when it reduced speed and reversed course at 13:00 UTC. The vessel was designated by OFAC due to its links to the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Line Group. The container ship was last observed sailing southeast at 4.8kn.
ADVICE: Ambrey advises merchant vessels to monitor Notice to Mariners broadcasts and contact US naval forces on VHF Channel 16 when operating in the Gulf of Oman and during Strait of Hormuz approaches. Ambrey also advises that merchant vessels calling Iranian ports adopt a non-confrontational approach, acknowledging radio communications and permitting inspections when instructed. In order to mitigate the risk of miscommunication/misunderstanding, it is advised to manage crew deck movements and designate safe muster points for the crew.
