US forces disabled an oil tanker attempting to reach an Iranian port after it ignored repeated warnings, the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) said Wednesday.
"U.S. forces enforced naval blockade measures against Iran, (on) July 15, by disabling an unladen oil tanker attempting to sail toward an Iranian port in the Arabian Gulf," CENTCOM said in a statement.
The military said it tracked the Curacao-flagged oil tanker M/T Belma as it transited international waters toward Iran’s Kharg Island.
"A U.S. aircraft disabled the vessel after firing hellfire missiles into the ship’s smokestack. The ship is no longer transiting to Iran," it added.
The US announced Tuesday that it resumed the naval blockade against vessels transiting to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas.
The command also said it had redirected two compliant commercial vessels and disabled one non-compliant vessel.
"U.S. forces remain vigilant and prepared to ensure full compliance," it added.
Earlier, President Donald Trump said that Iran is eager to reach a deal with the US, warning that Washington could continue its military campaign if an agreement is not reached.
"They want to settle so badly. They don't like what we're doing, and they do want to settle. We'll find out whether or not we settle with them, or we just finish it off," Trump said at a summit.
He added that Iran will be defeated "very soon."
The US and Iran have exchanged attacks in recent days despite a Pakistani-mediated framework deal towards ending the war, triggered by US-Israeli attacks on Tehran in late February.
By Diyar Guldogan in Washington
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr
