Published: April 20, 2026, 21:18
Reading Time: 2min – Video: 2min
Accused by Donald Trump of attempting to breach the American blockade, the Iranian container ship Touska was targeted and intercepted by the US military in the Strait of Hormuz. This act comes just hours before expected negotiations between the United States and Iran in Pakistan.
A naval showdown near the Strait of Hormuz. The scene was filmed by the US military from one of its destroyers. Facing them, the Iranian container ship Touska. The military ordered it to stop. But in the face of the crew’s refusal to comply, the Americans proceeded to several artillery shots, reportedly targeting the engine room. This method allowed them to stop the container ship without sinking it, as the engine room is above the waterline.
Then, the Marines took control of the Touska as the ship was heading towards an Iranian port. The commando boarded the ship, accused of bypassing the blockade. The images were broadcast worldwide by Washington. Donald Trump praised the operation: “The Touska ship tried to breach our blockade and it didn’t go well for them. We have total control of the ship and are inspecting what’s on board.”
A show of force just hours before negotiations were scheduled to take place in Pakistan. On the American side, Vice President J.D. Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. But there is no guarantee that the Iranians will come to the negotiating table. “We do not see any serious signs from the United States. On the contrary, many indications suggest that the Americans are not truly willing to advance diplomacy,” said Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Two hours ago, Donald Trump announced that he was extending the ceasefire until Wednesday evening. But according to the US President, if no agreement is reached, fighting will resume.
