U.S. military forces have disabled a third oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman this week, intensifying enforcement of a blockade targeting vessels accused of violating restrictions on Iranian oil transport.
The latest incident occurred late on June 10, marking another escalation in ongoing maritime operations in the region.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the action was carried out at approximately 11:20 p.m. Eastern Time off the coast of Oman.
Tanker Targeted After Alleged Violation of Iran Oil Transport Restrictions
According to CENTCOM, the vessel—identified as the Guinea-Bissau-flagged M/T Jalveer—was intercepted while allegedly attempting to move Iranian oil through the Gulf of Oman in violation of the blockade.
Officials stated that the ship failed to comply with repeated instructions issued by U.S. forces during the encounter. In response, a U.S. aircraft reportedly fired two Hellfire missiles into the vessel’s engine room, disabling its ability to continue operations.
The military said the action was taken after the crew ignored directives aimed at stopping the tanker’s movement.
Series of Strikes Follows Earlier Vessel Disabling Operations
The latest incident follows two similar operations earlier in the week. On Monday and Tuesday, U.S. forces disabled two additional vessels—identified as the Palau-flagged M/T Marivex and M/T Settebello.
According to CENTCOM, the Marivex had allegedly attempted to sail toward an Iranian port, while the Settebello was suspected of transporting Iranian oil in breach of enforcement rules.
These successive actions indicate a sustained campaign aimed at preventing maritime movement linked to Iranian oil shipments.
CENTCOM Reports Broader Enforcement Campaign in Strategic Waterway
U.S. Central Command stated that since the beginning of the blockade on April 13, forces have disabled nine vessels deemed non-compliant.
In addition, 135 ships were reportedly redirected after complying with enforcement instructions, while 42 vessels carrying humanitarian supplies were allowed to pass.
Officials described the operation as consistent enforcement applied across all national flags and vessel types operating in or near Iranian maritime zones.
Blockade Enforced Across Key Iranian Maritime Routes
The enforcement effort covers vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and surrounding coastal waters, including key shipping routes in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
CENTCOM emphasized that the blockade is being applied in an impartial manner, regardless of vessel nationality, as part of broader efforts to restrict maritime activities linked to Iran’s oil exports.
The ongoing operations reflect a significant expansion of U.S. maritime enforcement in one of the world’s most strategically sensitive shipping corridors.
