‘Criminal, Act Of Piracy’: Iran Condemns US Seizure Of Cargo Ship Near Oman; Warns Of ‘Grave Consequences’

Last Updated:April 21, 2026, 09:50 IST

Iran condemns US seizure of cargo ship Touska near Sea of Oman as illegal piracy, demands release, warns of grave consequences as tensions rise before new Iran US talks.

Iran has issued a strong warning to the United States over the interception of the Iranian-flagged cargo vessel Touska, calling the move illegal and dangerous. Tehran has demanded the immediate release of the ship and its crew, warning of “grave consequences" if the situation is not resolved.

In an official statement, Iran’s foreign ministry described the incident as a “criminal and illegal" attack on a commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman, close to Iranian territorial waters.

‘Act of piracy and violation of law’

According to the statement, the vessel was targeted in what Iran called a “piratical act" that violated international law, the UN Charter and a recent ceasefire agreement. Tehran said the action amounted to an attack on its sovereignty.

Iran also alleged that the crew and their families were intimidated during the operation and taken hostage. It said such actions crossed legal and humanitarian lines and required immediate attention from the international community.

Iran urged global institutions to intervene without delay. It called on the United Nations, the Security Council and the International Maritime Organization to condemn the incident and ensure the safe release of the vessel and all those on board.

The foreign ministry stressed that the situation posed a serious risk of escalation and warned that responsibility would lie with the United States. It added that Iran would use all available means to defend its sovereignty and protect the rights of its citizens.

US confirms interception

The development comes after the United States confirmed intercepting the vessel as part of its naval blockade in the region. Donald Trump said on his Truth Social platform that the Touska was seized by the US Navy after it failed to respond to warnings to stop.

The interception took place in the Gulf, adding to rising tensions in the region as both sides continue to exchange accusations.

Rising tensions in Hormuz ahead of new Iran-US talks

Iran has described the seizure as a violation of the ceasefire and has warned that it will respond. Officials said the action amounted to an “act of armed piracy" and hinted that retaliation could follow soon.

The incident marks another flashpoint in the ongoing standoff, with both countries holding firm positions. Iran has made it clear that it views the detention of the Touska as a serious breach, while the United States maintains it acted within the scope of its naval operations.

With tensions already high, Iran’s warning of “grave consequences" has raised concerns about further escalation in the region ahead of the second round of Islamabad talks. Vance will leave for Pakistan tomorrow.

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