U.S. Forces Target Panama-Flagged Cargo Ship Amidst Iranian Blockade Allegations

Washington, August 12: U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that American forces disabled the steering gear of a Panama-flagged cargo ship. This vessel was allegedly attempting to breach the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports.

CENTCOM stated, “The MV Vela Nova, flagged under Panama, was trying to navigate from the Gulf of Oman towards an Iranian port, violating the U.S. blockade against Iran. During this attempt, CENTCOM forces disabled the ship’s steering gear.”

According to the command, a U.S. Navy MH-60 helicopter launched two missiles at the ship’s engine room. The crew of the vessel ignored repeated warnings from U.S. forces, prompting the Navy helicopter to strike the Vela Nova with two Hellfire missiles. The U.S. blockade remains fully enforced.

Maritime security firm Vanguard reported in its initial findings that the missiles hit the ship, igniting a fire. However, the blaze was later extinguished.

CENTCOM noted that as of August 11, 55 commercial vessels had been redirected for violating the blockade, three ships had been disabled for ignoring regulations, and two vessels were taken under U.S. control.

Meanwhile, on August 11, a formal leadership change occurred within the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) in the Middle East. Major General Kevin Lambert handed over command to Rear Admiral Liam Hulin.

This ceremony symbolized the official transfer of command of the U.S.-led task force, which supports coalition forces in operations against ISIS in Iraq and Syria.

Established by U.S. Central Command in 2014, CJTF-OIR provides advice, assistance, and support to partner forces in their campaigns against ISIS.

Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM Commander, presided over the ceremony. According to CENTCOM’s ‘X’ post, he emphasized the task force’s role in combating terrorism, strengthening partnerships, and promoting regional security and stability.

Cooper also praised Kevin Lambert’s commitment and leadership during his tenure as the head of CJTF-OIR.

This leadership transition comes at a time when the task force is working alongside regional partners to address threats posed by ISIS and enhance security and stability across the region.