04/05/2026
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04/05/2026
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Guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) enforces the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports against an Iranian-flagged ship attempting to sail to a port in Iran
DUBAI, May 4: A vessel seized by US forces in the Gulf has been transferred to Pakistan for repatriation, according to a spokesperson for United States Central Command.
The Iranian-flagged ship, M/V Touska, was intercepted in April after allegedly attempting to breach a naval blockade and failing to respond to repeated warnings from US forces. Officials said the vessel was operating in restricted waters when it was detained.
Following its seizure, the ship and its crew have now been handed over to Pakistani authorities to facilitate their return to Iran.
The development comes at a time of rising maritime tensions in the region, particularly around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The transfer also follows the announcement by Donald Trump of a new US-led initiative to guide commercial shipping safely through the key global trade corridor.
Iran has strongly condemned the seizure, calling it unlawful and labeling the action as “piracy,” further escalating diplomatic friction over control and security of international waters in the Gulf.