The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that soldiers from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit boarded the Iranian-flagged oil tanker Celestial Sea in the Gulf of Oman on 20/5. The vessel was suspected of attempting to enter an Iranian port, violating a US blockade.

A video released showed US soldiers deploying by helicopter from an amphibious assault ship, then approaching and rappelling onto the Celestial Sea.

US soldiers board an Iranian-flagged ship in the Gulf of Oman. Video: X/CENTCOM.

"US forces searched and released the ship after instructing the crew to change course," CENTCOM stated. The command did not specify why the vessel was suspected of wanting to call at an Iranian port.

This marks the 5th cargo ship boarded and inspected since the US imposed a maritime blockade on Iran. It is the second vessel to be released, following the Blue Star III in late April. At least three ships: Touska, Tifani, and Majestic X, have been seized by US forces.

Since 13/4, the US Navy has enforced a blockade outside the Gulf of Oman. It warns it will seize any cargo ships arriving at or departing from Iranian ports, or those that have paid fees to Tehran. CENTCOM reported that this blockade operation has compelled 91 ships to alter their routes.

Location of the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman. Graphics: Guardian.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic shipping lane, handling approximately 20% of the global oil and gas supply. Iran has imposed a near-blockade on this strait, requiring commercial vessels to seek permission or pay fees to pass. It also prohibits vessels linked to the US, Israel, and parties involved in conflicts.

Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)