US Navy fighter jets struck two Iranian-flagged oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman on Friday, effectively disabling the vessels as they attempted to breach the ongoing maritime blockade of Iran’s ports. The operation, carried out by an F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from the USS George H.W. Bush, targeted the smokestacks of the M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda using precision munitions, rendering the ships unable to continue their journey.
Enforcement of the Blockade
The strike marks the latest escalation in the US-led effort to enforce the blockade, initiated last month to pressure Iran’s oil-dependent economy. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the vessels were sailing toward an Iranian port in violation of the embargo. The Navy has increasingly utilized force to deter blockade-runners, including incidents earlier this week when another Super Hornet disabled a third Iranian tanker by targeting its rudder.
‘US forces in the Middle East remain committed to full enforcement of the blockade of vessels entering or leaving Iran,’ said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander.
Escalating Tactics
The blockade, supported by over 20 US warships and 200 aircraft, has already intercepted dozens of commercial vessels attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports. This latest strike follows a similar incident in late April, when the USS Spruance fired inert rounds into another Iranian vessel’s engine room, disabling it and allowing US Marines to board the ship. The Navy’s precision strikes underscore its commitment to enforcing the blockade while avoiding unnecessary casualties.
The ongoing maritime operations coincide with broader US military activities in the region, including mine-clearing missions in the Strait of Hormuz and protective escorts for commercial shipping. Tensions remain high as Iranian forces continue to test US resolve, with recent attempts to target Navy destroyers using missiles, drones, and small boats. CENTCOM has responded by striking Iranian military facilities involved in these attacks, further complicating the fragile ceasefire in the region.