Wednesday, April 22, 2026 - U.S. forces have seized an Iran-linked cargo ship in the Gulf of Oman, as Donald Trump signalled he will not extend the current ceasefire with Tehran ahead of looming negotiations.
The U.S. president said the vessel, identified as the
Touska, attempted to breach an American naval blockade and was carrying what he
described as a “gift from China,” adding that its contents “wasn’t very nice.”
China has denied any involvement in supplying Iran.
According to Trump, the ship was intercepted after being
given “fair warning to stop,” with U.S. Marines boarding the vessel during a
coordinated operation involving helicopters. He said American forces had taken
“full custody” of the tanker.
Speaking to CNBC, Trump suggested Iran had “probably done a
little bit of restocking,” implying external support, but added: “I’m sort of
surprised, because I have a very good relationship and I thought I had an
understanding with President Xi. “But that’s all right. That’s the way war
goes, right?”
The incident comes as tensions remain high despite a
temporary ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, which is due to expire soon.
Trump made clear he does not intend to extend the truce. “I don’t want to do
that,” he said when asked about prolonging the ceasefire, adding: “I expect to
be bombing ’cause that would be a better attitude.”
He also expressed confidence in securing an agreement with
Iran, stating: “I expect I’m going to end up with a great deal.” Negotiations
are expected to resume in Islamabad, Pakistan, with U.S. Vice President JD
Vance reportedly set to attend, although Iranian state media has said no
delegation has been sent.
Trump has also called on Iranian authorities to release
eight women reportedly facing execution, writing on social media: “To the
Iranian leaders, who will soon be in negotiations with my representatives: I
would greatly appreciate the release of these women… Please do them no harm!”
Meanwhile, Iran has criticised the U.S. actions, with
parliamentary speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf accusing Washington of violating
the ceasefire and attempting to force concessions. “We do not accept
negotiations under the shadow of threats,” he said, warning that Iran was
prepared to escalate if necessary.
The U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which began
last week, has targeted vessels linked to Iran, disrupting movement through one
of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
Trump described the blockade as a “tremendous success,”
while also claiming U.S. strikes had significantly weakened Iran’s military
capabilities. “The military is raring to go. They are absolutely incredible,”
he said, adding that further action remains possible if talks fail.
0 Comments