Iran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, Oil Prices Surpass 100 US Dollars

Iran has announced the seizure of two container ships in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday (22/4/2026). This incident took place shortly after the United States (US) extended the ceasefire, amid efforts to reopen diplomatic channels. Citing Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency on Thursday (23/4/2026), the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that the seized ships were the Epaminondas, flying the Liberian flag, and the MSC Francesca, flying the Panamanian flag. Both ships were accused of repeated violations, operating without permission, and disrupting navigation systems while endangering maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. “With the dominant intelligence of our forces, these ships were detected and stopped to enforce the Iranian nation’s rights over the Strait of Hormuz,” read the IRGC statement. The IRGC emphasised that it would not tolerate violations of the blockade, and any ship breaching it would face firm action. On the other hand, the UK’s Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO) reported an attack in the area. A ship was fired upon approximately 8 nautical miles from the Iranian coast. All crew members were reported safe, and the ship sustained no damage. Another incident occurred about 15 nautical miles northeast of Oman, where a container ship was approached by Revolutionary Guard speedboats. The vessel was then fired upon, causing heavy damage to the bridge. UKMTO warned of increased military activity in the Strait of Hormuz, which is assessed to heighten risks to commercial shipping. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are linked to the US blockade policy. Iran views the ships as attempting to breach the blockade imposed in the region. In recent days, the US military has also reportedly seized the cargo ship Touska near Oman. Additionally, the tanker M/T Tifani carrying Iranian oil was intercepted in the Indian Ocean. President Donald Trump previously stated he would extend the ceasefire to give Iran time to present a peace proposal. He also noted that the Strait of Hormuz would not be opened while violations continue.