Adedokun Waliyu 
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have seized two container ships attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, despite Donald Trump announcing an extension of a ceasefire to allow more time for talks.
The Guards said their naval forces identified and stopped two “violating ships” in the strait and directed them to the Iranian coast. The vessels were identified as the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Liberia-flagged Epaminodas.
UK-based maritime security monitors reported that three commercial vessels experienced incidents involving gunboats in the strategic waterway, a key route for global oil and gas shipments that US and Iranian forces are competing to control.
One vessel reportedly came under fire northeast of Oman, sustaining damage but with no casualties. Another ship was also fired upon and forced to stop near the Iranian coast, while a third vessel was later identified as the Panama-flagged Euphoria.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed its naval unit carried out the seizures, while tensions continue to rise in the region.
The United States Navy has been attempting to block vessels linked to Iran, while Tehran insists ships must obtain permission to transit the strait. The route typically carries a significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas.
Despite the incidents, there are indications that a second round of talks between the United States and Iran could take place soon, with mediation efforts involving Pakistan.
The ceasefire has provided limited relief after weeks of conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, but uncertainty persists as both sides accuse each other of violations.
Iran has significantly restricted access to the strait since the escalation of the conflict, raising concerns about global energy supplies and maritime security.
