Final As much as date:
Iran seizes two ships after firing on three within the Strait of Hormuz, net site net site visitors plunges, oil tops 100 bucks as tensions with US and Israel escalate
One of many seized vessels, the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca, used to be confirmed by Montenegro’s maritime affairs minister. (File picture: AFP)
Iran has seized two container ships trying to exit the Gulf thru the Strait of Hormuz after opening fire on them and one other vessel, marking its first such action since the battle with the US and Israel started in February, Reuters reported. Notice Are living Updates Here
In step with Reuters, Iran’s semi-reliable Tasnim details company stated the Modern Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy performed the operation, warning that any disruption to “explain and safety” in the strait would be treated as a red line.
Ships Fired Upon, Two Seized
One of the seized vessels, the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca, was confirmed by Montenegro’s maritime affairs minister, who said four Montenegrin crew members on board were safe. Negotiations between the shipping company and Iranian authorities are ongoing, Reuters reported.
The Liberia-flagged Epaminondas, operated by a Greek firm, was also targeted. The vessel reported being fired upon northwest of Oman. It sustained damage to its bridge from gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades before being boarded by Iranian forces, according to maritime security sources cited by Reuters.
Also Read: Trump Says ‘No Time Pressure’ On Iran Talks, Calls Hormuz Blockade More Effective Than Bombing
A third vessel, Euphoria, was also fired upon but was not damaged and later continued its journey to the UAE, the report said.
Strategic Strait Disrupted
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route handling about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply, has seen traffic drop sharply, with only a few vessels now passing daily compared to around 130 under normal conditions, Reuters reported.
Iran has imposed restrictions on transit through the strait following US and Israeli strikes earlier this year, while Washington has responded with a blockade targeting Iranian shipping. With peace talks currently stalled, the situation remains uncertain.
Global Impact, Oil Prices Rise
The disruption has triggered significant volatility in global energy markets, with oil prices rising amid concerns over supply shortages. Benchmark Brent crude crossed $100 a barrel for the first time in over two weeks.
Analysts said the developments underscore the risks to global trade routes, with even an “open” Strait of Hormuz no longer regarded as safe for shipping, according to alternate specialists cited within the file.
The state marks a pointy escalation in maritime tensions within the sphere, without a certain timeline for de-escalation as either side continue to put in force competing blockades.
Handpicked reviews, to your inbox
A e-newsletter with the most easy of our journalism
First Published:
April 23, 2026, 09:forty eight IST
Recordsdata world Iran Seizes Two Ships In Hormuz, Fires On Vessels In First Such Movement Since War Began
Disclaimer: Comments replicate customers’ views, now not News18’s. Please take care of discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal feedback would possibly possibly possibly be eliminated. News18 would possibly possibly well perchance perchance disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you compromise to our Terms of Employ and Privacy Protection.
Read More
