Iran seizes two international ships in Strait of Hormuz amid Middle East war

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) seized two international container ships in the Strait of Hormuz on April 23, 2026, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The vessels, identified as the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Liberia-flagged Epaminondas, were taken for alleged maritime violations.

The IRGC released video footage showing the seizure and stated that the ships were attempting to exit the strait covertly.

Both vessels were escorted to Iranian shores following the operation, according to statements from the shipping companies and Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency.

This is the first instance of Iran seizing ships since the war began at the end of February 2026.

The incident comes amid a blockade stalemate in the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing ceasefire breaches between Iran and opposing forces.

The White House spokesperson clarified that the United States does not consider the seizure a violation of the US-Iran ceasefire, as the vessels were neither American nor Israeli.

Meanwhile, US Navy Secretary announced an immediate departure from his post amid the blockade stalemate.

The timing of the seizure is notable as it follows a recent announcement by US President Donald Trump to indefinitely call off US attacks and extend the ceasefire with Tehran pending peace talks.

However, Iranian officials have criticized the continuation of the US naval blockade and have not confirmed any ceasefire extension.

Iranian lead negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf emphasized that a full ceasefire would only be meaningful if the blockade was lifted.

The seizure of the two ships underscores Tehran's position and its willingness to enforce maritime control in the strategic waterway.

#Iran #IslamicRevolutionaryGuardCorps #StraitofHormuz #MSCFrancesca #Epaminondas #MiddleEastconflict